Speckled Orchids

Orchids come in a wide variety of colors, shapes and sizes. And one of our most popular flavorings, vanilla, is related to these beauties.

"Speckled Orchids" © Kathy Dunham 2009

Afternoon Spotlight

What better place to teach drawing classes than in the Getty Museum garden? The flowers were in full bloom and when the late afternoon sun kisses them there are some unique lighting conditions. This was one of them.

"Afternoon Spotlight" © Kathy Dunham 2009

Ceiling of Grapes

Farming technology keeps changing and becoming more mechanized in this era of modernization and efficiency. Raisins used to be created by cutting then drying bunches of grapes on paper trays laid on the ground. Now they can dry them on the vine. A trellis roof of wires allows vines to grow on top while the bunches of grapes hang below, hence, the "ceiling of grapes". When the sugar content is right, the vines are cut to stop the nutrients and water from going to the bunches while they dry in the air. Then a machine comes along and collects the finished product. Similar to a grape arbor, this giant trellis covers acres and acres of vines. It's a quicker and cleaner way to make raisins.

"Ceiling of Grapes" © Kathy Dunham 2009