The idea for this series of paintings was to wander around D.C. to find new ways of painting our historic landmarks. Although it was an intellectual approach rather than an emotional response, it still held interest for me, and it is the way I begin most "assignments." However, the emotional impact must follow sooner or later, or the painting just doesn't happen.

After making many academic studies of many buildings and monuments, interesting but uninspiring, I turned a corner and found this scene spread out in front of me. I was immediately captivated. The sun was just emerging and suddenly there was light everywhere. Colors were brighter, the White House whiter, the tulips and greenery more lush; everything touched by the light came to life. There was a spirited feeling in the air - even the statues seemed energized, and I certainly had my motivation. In fact, I could hardly wait to get to a studio to paint "White House Spring".

- Nita Engle