The Story of Summer Lovin’ | Sea Kayaking in Casco Bay

Private Collection

Lovin’ is a captivating oil painting that immortalizes an exquisite summer evening spent sea kayaking. As the sun begins its slow descent just to the right on the horizon, it casts a warm glow across the shimmering waters of Casco Bay, The gentle lapping of waves against the hull of the kayak and the rhythmic dip of the paddles into the seawater come together to create a sense of harmony and tranquility.

In the foreground of the painting, the sleek silhouette of the kayak cuts through the water with effortless grace. You can imagine that with each stroke of the paddle, the kayaker propels themselves forward. It is a scene that speaks to the timeless allure of Maine. The sky above is ablaze with a palette of warm oranges, pinks, and purples. In the distance, rugged islands come into view, with rocky edges and frosted with white pines.

My Oil Painting Process

The key to this large format painting was using a panel board as a canvas, and starting with a burnt sienna ground before starting. This contributed to the depth in the sea and the hard polyethylene plastic. One of my favorite moments in this painting is the sensation of setting a bearing on one of the far-off Sister Island, Williams Island, and Upper Goose Island.

Where to Kayak in Maine

I hope you have a chance to take a summer sunset paddle in Casco Bay when visiting. Please, please do not go sea kayaking solo in these seas. As protected and beckoning as many of the islands, coves, and coastline can be, it is always best to sea kayak with others and with the appropriate sea kayak equipment.

• Portland Paddle, L.L Bean Outdoor Discovery, Maine Kayak Sunset tours, beginner outings, island-to-island camping, you name it! If you are visiting from June to September, this is a MUST-DO! Book an excursion with one of these knowledgeable experienced outfitters who know the area intimately.

• Maine Island Trail Association A fantastic resource to become familiar with the hundreds of islands along the coast of Maine. Just one more aspect that makes Maine so beautiful and unique.

• Southern Maine Sea Kayaking Network If you are from the area and would like to do more sea kayaking, become a member of this Meet-Up based network connecting all levels of sea kayakers.