A peaceful morning on the South Toe River in the mountains of Western North Carolina. The word "Toe" is thought to be derived form the Cherokee Indian word Estatoe, and was their settlement on a trade route. Toe is easier to pronounce.

When painting on location, I often imagine the past; how it must have appeared and the people who passed through. I think it adds another layer of atmosphere in my work. At least in my mind it does.

Egg tempera on panel
14 x 18 in.

Available at Hughes Gallery. Email: hughesgallery@earthlink.net