Painting in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Midnight, Bear Lake 12.5 x 9.5” Pastel John Hulsey

“You can’t be serious!” the young ranger said to me at the Visitor’s Center. “Oh, but I am, most definitely”, I replied. “How can you paint at night? It’s DARK out there!” he persisted. I could clearly see that he was interested by now, and perhaps a little concerned for my welfare. After all, he was right, in a way. RMNP is a BIG place and it gets very empty of people at night, so if I should stumble and fall, rescue is not a sure thing. Plus there are the mountain lions to consider.

“The reason I am going to paint in the Park tonight is the full moon – it will provide all the light I need to get around safely and create a very special painting”, I explained. “The light will be magical, and no one will be around to distract me. It is extremely peaceful. Why don’t you come along?” I offered. “Thanks, but no, I have to get some sleep tonight – these summer days are long enough for us as it is”, he said, finally. W…