The plan that morning was to paint outside. I’ve always like this corner in the Crossroads Arts District. It’s a short walk from home, and I find the transition from the old, low-rise brick buildings in the foreground to the contemporary high rises in the distance to create a compelling contrast.

It was early when I started out. There was some rain in the forecast, but it looked as though I’d have a decent window in which to paint without getting soaked. The colors were intriguing in the early light, with the older buildings in deep red hues and the distant buildings shrouded in shades of blue. The lights danced on the pavement and the light filtering between the buildings reflected the clouded sky.

Unfortunately, the weather chose not to cooperate. It was too windy to keep my easel sufficiently anchored, and the light rain turned heavy. I was able to wander into the median long enough to do a quick (very quick!) rough sketch and snap some pictures while dodging cars. A few of the drivers gave me curious glances. I’m sure they thought I was out of my mind. I can’t argue. But I really wanted to capture that moment.

I went back to my studio, and was able to get the colors I wanted by looking out my window. As I was painting, I was listening to an old Simon & Garfunkel album. The song, Wednesday Morning, 3 AM came on. By then, it was 10 AM, so I borrowed the title, with a more appropriate time reference.

I think the angle of this piece is one of the interesting elements, because it captures the feel of being at the level of the passing cars. The horizontal format of the painting also gives it something of a panorama effect, placing less focus on any specific element, but emphasizing the movement in the piece.

It also confirms that I do, in fact, have sense enough to come in out of the rain.

This piece sells in a black-stained wood box frame. It ships free in the US.