My painting “Dharma Bums,” of the acclaimed Kerouac-inspired restaurant in Point Pleasant, was painted as part of the AOY Art Center’s Paint Our River Towns Plein Air event. I loved how the solid stone building with crisp white window trim and a warm red roof anchored the scene in the upper right corner, offering a sense of permanence and quiet comfort, while the large tree with bright yellow-green leaves spread across the left side, full of life and freshness. In the foreground, the Delaware and Raritan Canal gently reflects the colors and shapes around it adding depth and stillness. The palette balances rich, earthy browns with vibrant greens, blues, and soft yellows, hopefully creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. I used loose and expressive brushstrokes to suggest movement in the leaves and water, yet maintain a subtle impressionistic quality that captures the light and shadow’s natural interplay without overwhelming detail. The overall effect I aimed for is a peaceful scene that encourages contemplation and a renewed appreciation for the quiet beauty found in everyday rural settings.