Hannah, a 20 year old tuxedo cat, was my walking companion during a visit to Harpswell Maine a few summers ago. She and I strolled the shore early in the morning. I was amazed at both her agility to manage the rocks and her acuity for such a wizened cat. Returning from our exploration of the nearby cove, we passed beneath the bows of an ancient apple tree reputed to have a strong spirit residing within. It was a bit creepy and I felt compelled to give it a nod of respect as I snuck under the gnarled limbs. Hannah has passed on since that summer. I wonder if she has joined the spirit of this enduring apple tree. I wish my little friend well.
I drew this 22x 30" image with 4-6B graphite pencils on a sheet of beautiful BFK Rives 140# cotton paper. The furry surface adds to the diffused feeling of this drawing. This was a study with the intent to eventually to make a colored pencil painting. But I love this graphite so much, just the way it is. And it has been filed away for almost a year now, so I get to experience it objectively. I doubt a color rendition would improve the message. Mean time, it remains in cue for one day. Enjoy!