Cottonwood glory

 

"Cottonwood Glory," 5 x 8, 140 lb d'Arches cold press paper

Aspen claim the high country glory in autumn in New Mexico and the West.

But if there is a tree of the West, it is the low country cottonwood, a landmark of rugged bark, twisted branches and in many cases, giants centuries old, found anywhere there is water in the arid land.

And in fall, their golden color fills the valleys, contrasted brilliantly with the deep blue skies and distant purple mountains and mesas.

 Thus today's second watercolor.