Gold Rush

“I want my paintings to always have a way of making time stand still.” – Eric Christensen

“The water is purer than the air, and the air is the air that angels breathe.” This was Mark Twain’s impression of the heavenly landscape in the environs of Lake Tahoe. More than a century and a half later, it remains one of the world’s favorite destinations, steeped in history and bustling with activities. In nearby Heavenly Village stands Marcus Ashley Gallery, home to a panoply of Eric Christensen art. These masterpieces in watercolor invariably feature the scenic Napa Valley of Northern California, itself a historic region.

Gold Rush is the artist’s tribute to the ore mining of the 1850s that signaled the district’s birth. Today, the site has been transformed into a wine country with rolling hills of vineyards and banks of lavender. And yet, its foundations have not been forgotten. Christensen’s painting immortalizes the legacy in golden white wine bottles and long-stemmed glasses.

The golden sun rays bounce off their surface in his trademark reflections and highlights. Ripe fruit and aged cheese join the festivity in their cheery yellow hues contrasted with deep red cherries, light green grapes, and olive green trees. This hyper-realistic piece is a dazzling testament to the unique talent that is Eric Christensen.