ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

This painting was done during the plein air competition in Hudson, WI several years ago. It reminds me of the days we visited this lovely area on the St. Croix River. There was so much to paint – beautiful scenes like the one pictured – original buildings made of brick and mortar and still standing tall – people enjoying the beauty of the water. This competition continues every year in Hudson. This year, Paul will not be painting. He’s busy consulting with the angels on the shades of the rainbow. Two of his past paintings will be on display, along with another artist who passed away this year. Tom Dimock and Paul Boecher were part of the original founding group of four when it first began. Pat Undis and Susan McLean Keeney comprised the rest of the team. I feel he would be very honored and humbled to be part of this show again.

A couple years ago, Paul was determined. His German heritage made him more so. His eyesight was beginning to fail as macular degeneration closed in. His paintings were becoming muddied. The brilliant colors of past works were diminishing. Still, there was no stopping him. He set up his easel near the water. There was a class of young sailors just entering the harbor. They noticed Paul and immediately gathered around and watched as he laid colors on the canvas and talked about his younger years, sailing on the water. He could strike up a conversation with everyone he met – whether he knew them or not.

The 2025 Plein Air in Hudson will hold the Awards Reception at the Seasons Gallery, Monday, August 11, 6:30pm-8:30pm – 401 Second Street – Hudson, WI.

OUR ROAD TOGETHER

Sun slowly sets, leaving glistening rays upon the still water,

We hold hands and think about tomorrow,

We plan,

We dream,

We pray for answers,

For wisdom, discernment, dependence on our God,

Some days we seem to approach a wilderness,

No plans,

Shattered dreams

Seemingly unanswered prayers

It appears that God is no where to be found,

But then the glow of His presence is felt in the skies,

The water,

The trees,

The reflections,

We can be still and know,

That He is there,

That He is God,

THAT HE’S GOT THIS!