Paintings of the Amish

   The Amish people of Pennsylvania have a culture all their own. Their lives seem far simpler in some ways- they aren't caught up in the busy frenzy of life that many of us are. That is not to say their lives are easy. They are very hard workers. They have beautiful farms in Central Pennsylvania. One can visit the Belleville market every Wednesday where they sell fresh vegetables, baked goods, and flowers.
    I do not photograph the Amish. They believe that this is "creating a graven image," something forbidden by God in the 10 Commandments. I respect their beliefs and do not take pictures.
    My paintings are of common sights seen when visiting an area where the Amish live. I then use my imagination to create the scene captured in the painting. I am currently working on a painting of an Amish auction. It was started the day after going to an auction at an Amish farm. As I sat in the barn, watching beautiful quilts being hoisted up for all to see, I took in the sights, trying to impress all the details for an painting of that auction. I will post it here when it is completed.