When I took my family to Tahoe recently, I neglected to bring my art supplies. As soon as I caught a breathtaking glimpse of the radiant afternoon light on the sapphire jewel of a lake, I realized what a mistake I'd made. I scoured the town for an art supply store, and bought several tubes of color.

I hurriedly set up my easel on the south shore of the lake and set to work. I didn't want to lose that luminous light, and I think the passion and urgency with which I worked shows itself in the bold, energetic brushwork that brings Lake Tahoe Shoreline, Winter to life.