Impressionists rejected the “academic” techniques of earlier movements in favor of short, bold brushstrokes that captured light and color rather than fine details. Impressionists most frequently painted landscapes and other subjects in nature and used the plein air technique of painting outdoors and directly in view of their subjects. To capture the natural light, artists painted quickly, attempting to depict an “impression” of the scene rather than a detailed copy. In this plein air landscape, "Sandstone & Oaks", Lamb captures the unique character of the California backcountry: the vibrant mustard plant in the foreground is nestled amongst the family of oaks and sandstone outcropping – truly a setting only to be witnessed by those who take the paths less traveled. The painting is signed “J. Lamb” lower right and is housed in a beautiful, hand-gilded gold frame.