The Dam is the fifth painting in my ongoing plein air series inspired by Cherokee Bluffs Park in Flowery Branch, Georgia. This 168‑acre park in Hall County is known for its scenic walking and biking trails, dramatic bluffs, rocky outcroppings, streams, and peaceful wooded paths. Living only five minutes away, I’ve spent countless hours exploring the area, and it has become one of my favorite places to paint outdoors.
This particular piece focuses on the dammed side of the lake, a quieter and more reflective section of the park. While the dam itself provides structure to the composition, the true emphasis lies in the upper third of the painting—where the tree line stretches across the horizon. The varied greens, shifting light, and layered foliage create a natural rhythm that guides the viewer’s eye across the landscape.
The reflections in the water play an equally important role. The mirrored shapes of the trees and sky soften the scene and add a sense of calm, capturing the stillness that often settles over the lake during early morning and late afternoon painting sessions. Although the work began outdoors as a plein air study, I completed the final details in the studio, refining color relationships and enhancing the subtle interplay of light and shadow.
Cherokee Bluffs Park continues to inspire me with its blend of rugged terrain and serene water views. The Dam represents not only a specific location within the park but also the ongoing connection I feel to this landscape. It’s a place where natural beauty, quiet moments, and artistic exploration come together—making it an ideal subject for this growing series of paintings.