Dawn Patrol Photobomb

When I created this pastel, I wanted to celebrate two of New Mexico’s most iconic symbols—the roadrunner and the hot air balloon. The idea came from imagining what it might look like if the state bird itself stopped to admire one of our brilliant balloons floating through the evening sky. There’s something playful and distinctly Southwestern about that meeting of nature and culture that I wanted to bring to life.

I painted the roadrunner in the foreground with soft, textured strokes to highlight its personality—curious, alert, and full of character. Its warm browns and golds harmonize with the vivid red and yellow of the balloon, marked with the familiar Zia sun symbol, glowing against the deep twilight sky.

For me, this piece is a joyful blend of whimsy and pride—a tribute to the light, color, and character of New Mexico. It’s about seeing the familiar through new eyes and celebrating the beauty that makes this place so unique.

This artwork was an Honorable Mention Awardee at the 2024 New Mexico State Fair.

The original has been SOLD, but Giclee prints are available.