Created to celebrate the artist’s participation in the crewed racing competition that takes place around the Farallon Islands. Using her unique blend of realism and abstraction, Denise masterfully captures the adrenaline-fueled excitement of sailors competing against each other in the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. The race is known for its challenging conditions, including strong winds, heavy seas, and oftentimes, unpredictable weather. One of the most striking aspects of "Race Around the Rocks" is the use of color. The swirling blues and greens of the ocean blend seamlessly to creating a vivid, almost surrealistic tableau.

"Race Around the Rocks" is a continuation of Denise’s ongoing exploration of the natural world. Similar to other paintings on this site, this work is imbued with a sense of wonder and awe at the power of the elements. At the same time, however, it is also an ode to human strength and perseverance.