Painting on the Pearl

This painting holds a special memory and place in my heart. I’ve titled it Painting on the Pearl because I was literally painting while on the Pearl River.

The outdoors has always been one of my favorite places to be, surrounded by the beauty of nature. The Ross Barnett Reservoir is especially meaningful to me, so much so that I even named my black Lab, Rez, after it!

My parents, my husband, and I spend so much time near the Reservoir, whether we're cooking out, gathering with family and friends, or enjoying peaceful days on the water. On the day I painted this piece, I was in the boat with my parents. My mom's favorite hobby is fishing, and there’s something so calming about watching my dad quietly guide the boat with the trolling motor, taking us to where the fish are jumping.

As for me, my favorite part is simply riding in the boat with the wind on my face. One of the most beautiful sights is watching the sunlight dance across the water, making it sparkle. I used metallic watercolors to recreate the shimmering effect of the sun reflecting on the water. Since I was painting right there on the boat, I even used water from the Reservoir itself to mix my watercolors. That little detail makes this piece feel even more connected to the place that inspired it.

By the end of a day on the water, we all have sun-kissed skin that stays pink for days, windswept hair that only a boat ride can create, and smiles that linger long after we've headed home. Those are the moments I wanted to preserve in this painting, a reminder of peaceful days, precious family memories, and the simple joy of being surrounded by nature.