This painting is a celebration. My first time to Waterton Lakes and I was devastated by the massive breadth of devastation from the 2017 fires – crossing elevation, rivers, canyons and distance. Mountain after mountain of silver grey burnt forest, as far as you could see. Grey sticks like fur receding in waves rising up to the alpine. It was awesome. Depressing. Dramatic, sad and so beautiful.

Beneath the blur of silver grey standing trunks – once thick forest - you could now see the forms of stone & boulders, canyons & ridges. The blocks upon which these majestic mountains are built. I was blessed with the first October snow on the peaks and amazing foliage.
Below the burn – everywhere - was a celebration of autumn color and new life.
Regrowth & rejuvenation.

This large acrylic original was inspired by a small 6x6 inch Gouache painting done sitting in the sunshine on location at Red Rocks Canyon trail. With layers of specked golden toned foliage, textured bankside and bright trees in the creek bed.