March Missions

Being obsessed by early California architecture, primarily the Missions of California dating from the founding by Fr. Junipero Serra in the 1760s to their role in the present time. Their restoration and history. The first mission was in San Diego and the last (21st) one was in Sonoma. Lots of these missions lay in ruins for many years, or were destroyed by warfare,  but many were restored and some of them still function as basilicas. Many offer weddings and other tourist interests.

So, I started with the Basilica in San Diego, my hometown. Just looking at the photos brings back dim memories of having visited sometime in my early childhood. My parents were fond of day trips to historical or wilderness places. Gas was cheap back then. I decided to do a series of them, at least until I just lose my interest (the usual reason). Some of the missions were of a standard primitive architecture, others were more ornate and sophisticated, even having bell towers which makes for interesting shadows and other details.

Here's three of the first ones: Sonoma, San Diego and Carmel followed by a fourth: San Luis Rey in Oceanside. All are watercolors 11x15" on 140" cold press paper.