Jessamine Creek Idyll | 11×14 | Oil on Linen Panel

Inspiration for Jessamine Creek Idyll

I began Jessamine Creek Idyll en plein air while visiting family in Kentucky. My cousin waded down the stream and fished, and I set up my easel and painted. The sun poured over the towering, cliff-like walls of this unique area, covering water and stone with golden light. Back-lit leaves glowed yellow-green. Shadows of blue and purple fell over the rocks and bushes. I felt like I could stay there forever in utter contentment.

Gorgeous Gorge

Jessamine Creek Gorge is located near the small town of Wilmore, Kentucky. The Nature Conservancy originally purchased 55 acres in the palisades region of the Kentucky River as a nature preserve. Jessamine County now owns the property, and has expanded it to 155 acres. According to the State of Kentucky’s website, “Jessamine Creek Gorge is one of the most significant natural areas in central Kentucky. This property protects frontage on the Kentucky River as well as cliffline habitat above the creek that protects several rare species, including the federally endangered gray bat.”