This represents the moment when the Saturn V’s first stage F-1 engines cut-out and the explosive detonate to separate the S-IC (first stage) from the S-IC/S-II interstage. One of the key events is the four pairs of retro-rockets normally hidden under the engine fairings firing to keep the stages from unintentionally crashing into each other (it happens).

I love the Saturn V. When I decided to move from applying acrylics primarily with an airbrush to a “hairy stick” (AKA a brush), it seemed a good choice. Well…yes and no.

The subject matter certainly held my attention and pushed me through the learning curve. A big part of that curve was just trying to keep my paints workable for a useful length of time. It was a time of a lot of experimentation with paints, additives, palettes, etc.

When I look at the finished piece, I’m always surprised that it came out as well as it did. Because of the difficulties, I always remember it as not being as good. Don’t get me wrong, this is hardly a gallery piece, but it will always have a welcome spot in my heart.