High above the San Diego Bay sits the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, a historic landmark from a bygone time.  Perched on the crest of Point Loma, in Cabrillo National Monument, it sits a lofty 462 feet above sea level.

One can easily see why the builders chose this location.  The view on a clear day is breathtaking, and visitors have an unimpeded view for miles around.

Unfortunately this stunning location had an unforeseen flaw.  When low lying clouds or fog rolled in, the lighthouse was hidden from view. After 36 years in operation, it was replaced with a new lighthouse which was built near sea level, and was better able to guide mariners on foggy days.
The Old Point Loma Lighthouse is one of my favorite subjects to paint.  Standing next to it, I feel like I’m getting a taste for what it was like to live here long ago.

Even now, overlooking modern San Diego Bay, it has retained a sense of stillness and solitude.  The sound of the wind in the brush, the glittering ocean below, sailboats leisurely going to and fro along the coast.

I try to capture this feel every time I paint Point Loma.  Every day is different, and I love to see if I can capture even a little of its magic with my paintbrush.