Late Light at Grand Canyon

When the sun is very near to setting, you can actually see its motion. More accurately, of course, what you are seeing is the motion of the earth, but if you aren’t thinking about science, there’s no mistaking that movement. I like to look in the direction opposite the sun. I find a good place to sit, and I watch as the shadows rapidly climb up the canyon walls. And finally there’s a last glorious flash, just before darkness swallows up the last bit of the canyon, that sometimes reminds me of the extinguishing of the Olympic flame. Both moments leave me, if not sad, at least a tiny bit wistful. I made this painting partly so I could keep that moment from ending.