As an artist, I like to connect with the subjects I paint. I feel the energy and mood of a place, hear the sounds and take in the smells that mold a visitor’s impression of a specific place. But mostly, I love to meet the people and hear their stories. These are the defining characteristics I try to capture in my work. On a trip to Florida, Mayport Village – just a short jaunt from Jacksonville – was the highlight of my search for seaside subjects to paint. The colors and the quality of the light created a dynamic backdrop for old shrimp boats moored while awaiting refurbishment. If you like this painting, you may enjoy its companion painting, “The Lady at Rest.”