When you go to Valley View Hot Springs in Southern Colorado, it’s like you’ve stepped back in time to the 1960’s complete with naked hippies, hot springs under the stars, and communal living. Dready-haired kids are running around, VW buses are parked in the shade of the trees, and the “naturalist” lifestyle is strongly encouraged. This place is nestled up in the mountains along the San Luis Valley and has one of the most awe-inspiring wide open views. After a lovely morning of soaking in the springs, my husband and I sat on the porch of our cabin watching the dramatic weather roll over the mountains and across the valley floor. This is the kind of landscape I love to paint with big western skies and raw rural spaces. It will be one of three paintings in the Group Landscape Show at Abend Gallery later this month- opening April 24th. “San Luis Valley View” by Kirsten Savage, 12×24, oil.