Against a brilliant blue sky,

Ancient stone buildings glow golden in the afternoon sun.

Beautiful people are found wallowing in sidewalk cafe’s staring blindly at the ancient beauty that surrounds them.

History is bleeding from every corner, bound up in rags of modern canopy, which calls this American tourist to join the throng.

Baguette? Crepe? Espresso? Fill me, satisfy my hunger with your culture and only then, divulge your dreaded underworld of yesterdays

Open these eyes to what is hidden within the cobblestone streets now baring only languishing frivolity on their worn surfaces

I secreted myself  into the crumbling ruins of the ancient Roman Coliseum and the bustling city Forum because I have always wanted what only they can share.

I now hold so tightly to the very light that I found dancing in their corners.  What I take will become an integral part of this 21st century artists life.

Now I share the city of roman ruins where Van Gogh splattered his paint

With all those who stumble into me.

“Arles” Oil on Linen 36″x48″ 2017