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“The locals say we have two seasons in California: green
and gold,” says artist June Carey. “In the late 1880s
northern California became a source for the highest quality grain
in the world, especially wheat. This period was known as the
‘Second Gold Rush.’ The grain was harvested and then
floated down the rivers and canals on boats to San Francisco
and loaded on to huge sailing ships. When the winds came the
germ of the wheat and oat grasses spread and mixed with native
varieties.
In the late spring now, when the rains end, the grasses adapt
to the long dry summers by turning brilliant shades of gold.
The fields remain this color until the fall rains bring the new
green growth. In September, they are a beautiful contrast to
the rich dark greens of the native valley oaks and live oaks.”
The golden glow of grain highlights the dawning autumn beauty
of Carey’s California valley in September Gold. |