In "Quiet Encounter," I tried to capture the best elements of nature in the most beautifully visual way possible.   It has turned out to be one of my most colorful paintings -- yet a very peaceful image.   Stimulating colors often stimulate the senses visually and keep one "up".   Somehow, however, the lazy trickle of the stream and the crispness of the air in this eastern mountain landscape invite me to rest on a big rock and soak it in.  Then out of nowhere appear a couple of whitetail deer and some wild turkeys and wallah!  A moment you'd never forget.

~ Mark Keathley