Painting
A small selection of my new works reflect the transition from our seasonal transition to our tiny cabin for the summer. I was drawn to experiment with the depth of forest greens along our path and the forms of birds we see daily and watch grow up.
From landscapes and creatures to mugs with nature inspired patterns. My art practice explores the nature of our lives in the rain-soaked Alexander Archipelago of Southern Alaska. Our family rotates between Petersburg and Juneau, two isolated Alaskan communities accessible only by air or sea and surrounded by the Tongass National Forest (17 million acres of mountains, ice, forests, and peatland). Inspiration from the natural world requires slowing down to notice small changes and practicing immersion in the landscape or time watching a particular creature. Communities on our region are small, connections are important, and painting helps me express my understandings as I continue to explore, learn, and share. This gallery includes selected recent works.
Studio Alpenglow (available) 8"X8" watercolor As light begins returning, the crisp cold mountains glow with warmth and the pale landscape is a background for vibrant color inside.
Swans At Blind Slough (SOLD) watercolor The swift water and tidal influence creates a open water area in the midst of winter that attracts swans to feed on aquatic plants and roots. The tannin rich water color comes from the adjacent muskegs that drain into this special habitat.
Wormy Huckleberry in Whale Vase (SOLD) 5X7" In the fall, huckleberry leaves take on a variety of rich tones and the last few berries look a little rough, but I love snipping a branch for our table.
Too Cold Outside (SOLD) 8"X8" watercolor When winter is lasting a bit too long and other regions are posting about spring flowers- our gardens are still frosty, and some too chilly days require a good book and a cup of something warm.
Salmonberry sketch (SOLD) watercolor These watery raspberries relatives are a favorite summer snack of bears and my little boy. I remember baked them into pies and cobblers as a girl, but I think they are best gobbled fresh off the bush.
Winter Company (SOLD) 8"x8" watercolor There is a span in our winter where the landscape seems to have drained of all color and the coziest lively place is in the house chatting over a steaming cup.
Beach Peas and Pods (SOLD) watercolor & ink This species varies from brilliant magenta to purple and fades to soft lavender at the close of the season. The colorful pods are typically hidden in the foliage preparing to seed next year's population.
Porpoise at Ann Coleman (SOLD) watercolor & ink We often walk to this beach access and see coastal wildlife. One summer, we were frequently salmon fishing from shore at high tide and sometimes saw seals. One day, I was surprised to see harbor porpoise incredibly close and enjoy imagining the life that slips right near us on the rocks.
Wild Beach Rose (SOLD) watercolor Sitka Rose or Nootka Rose is a sentimental favorite of mine and the sweet scent fills the coast in certain spots during the summer.
Whales At Five Finger (SOLD) watercolor & ink Whales use pinnacles and islands to channel their catch and I imagine this narrow island has been a favorite supper sport for many whale generations before the historic lighthouse was built in Fredrick Sound.
Red Huckleberry in Huckleberry Blossom Vase (SOLD) 5X7" watercolor Our wild huckleberries come in cousin varieties and this pink/red type has very appealing soft green leaves and makes a delicious jam. The vase design is inspired by embroidery designs.
Rose Hip Sunset (SOLD) 8X10" watercolor Our treehouse cabin provides serious sunset views on late summer nights and I occasionally bring home a snippet from the garden or a hike to enjoy like this rose hip.