The answer didn't jump out at me either. It was slow in coming. Maybe that speaks to the subject matter, too. For some time now I've found myself looking at trees. The snow covered birds nests, lodged securely in bare branches. Bright red berries still clinging to the branches and providing rare winter color. The complex patterns of the branches. Texture of bark. Stark landscapes.
Now I'm eager to get out and find some of my favorite tress, visit them before they even start thinking about leaves. Yes, I have favorite trees! There is a large white tree with maple shaped leaves bigger than my hand. Is it a sycamore? It grows down near one of our small lakes. I discovered it when I worked in the neighborhood and would go exploring in the woods on my lunch hour.
It's hard to believe I've never tried to draw or paint these guys. I think that experiencing them, being there in the moment to appreciate them has been enough, but maybe it's time to see if I can capture any of their spirit on paper.