Lotus I-NA

I read that the Lotus is a symbol of purity and beauty in many eastern religions. Painting with MOPAPA at Tower Grove Park in STL this morning, I can understand the reverence for these amazing plants.  The delicately colored flowers grow up on long curving stems from a shallow, muddy pond and their leaves form amazing patterns and shapes as they dance in the breeze. They were a challenge to paint because, as with all things plein air, the light and shadow patterns were constantly changing. This painting is a 12×16 oil on panel.