rock tunnel

This tunnel was created by large fallen rocks. Water from Llano Uplift aquifer drips out from between the rocks, which creates small pools with ferns and green plantlife. A few feet away from the water are cactus and agave...plants indigenious to dry, rocky climates.

Pedernales River, west

Early last Sunday morning I went for a long hike along the river and cliffs of the Pedernales River in Central Texas. I sat on a small beach and sketched this epic four page moleskine panorama.

Pedernales River, east

The river curves around a sharp bend to the far right.

Pedernales river rocks

My goal with drawing landscapes and botanicals is to enhance the harmony and natural rythm of the scene. Fast flowing water is both rythmic and chaotic together. Water is by far my favorite of the 4 elements, also the most challenging to illustrate.

This sketch is also an exercise with textures. Rocks, water, sunlight, and shadows.

cave on the Pedernales River

A fairly large cave along a tributary of the Pedernales River. I was in awe of this area, it is gorgeous!

fern grotto

Along a small tributary of the Pedernales River, there are several small springfed grottos. It was a great surprise to find these areas. Just beyond the water is the typical dry, cactus landscape. It's a completely opposite environment from the cool, wooded grottos.

cave entrance

A small cave along the banks of the Pedernales River.

Pedernales River

View from above. West of Austin there is a large nature preserve along the Pedernales River. The land was once a ranch owned by Milton Reimers. I visited this place 20 years ago, this weekend I made a return visit. It is a beautiful and exciting place for hiking, canoeing and rock climbing. After hiking about a mile from the parking lot, I finally came to the river...from above. It took a while to figure out how to get down the cliff.

steep climb

Climbing down the cliff to the river.