Cathedral Rock Paintings: One Landmark, Many Stories

Cathedral Rock has been part of my artistic journey for years, yet I never seem to see it quite the same way twice. The changing Sedona light, reflections in Oak Creek, brilliant sunsets, and the unmistakable shape of the red rocks continually give me new reasons to return.

My Cathedral Rock paintings aren’t meant to document a single view. Each one reflects where I was artistically at the time—sometimes realistic, sometimes whimsical, and increasingly filled with the luminous color and imagination that have become part of my style.

Returning to Cathedral Rock Through the Years

One of the most important paintings in this journey is Creekside Cathedral. It marked my return to painting after a five-year break and later became part of another unexpected chapter when the image was licensed by Warner Bros.

Other paintings followed, each taking Cathedral Rock in a different direction. Cathedral Moon became one of my most recognized interpretations, while paintings such as Sacred Reflections and Pure Joy allowed me to explore changing light, reflections, color, and emotion.

Years later, Sedona’s Cathedral Serenity brought me back to those inspiring waters once again. Rather than recreating an earlier painting, I wanted to see what Cathedral Rock would become through the eyes of the artist I am today.

From Traditional Landscapes to Glowing Cathedral Rock Art

My approach to Sedona has changed considerably over the years. Watercolors and oils eventually gave way to more adventurous color, patterned skies, and fluorescent acrylics.

In normal light, my newer originals are vivid Sedona landscape paintings. Under black light, fluorescent colors can reveal another personality, bringing unexpected patterns and details to life. It’s a transformation that has allowed me to combine the familiar beauty of Cathedral Rock with the more imaginative, mystical direction my work has taken.

Explore More of My Sedona Art

Cathedral Rock is only one chapter of my continuing fascination with the Southwest. Explore my Sedona Landscape Paintings for more views of the red rocks and desert, or Go Behind the Canvas to discover the stories, techniques, hidden surprises, and experiences behind my work.