My purpose in getting out of doors to paint is always to learn. I find that being in the place, dialling in the shapes, colour and quick light one of the best things that a painter can do to learn about the world around them.
I've been thinking about my individual natural capital - my time on this planet, how I use it and what I do with it. The answer for me is in truly living each moment without fear of the past or present, with my loved ones by my side.
There is a big difference in working on site, with all of the sensory input of the moment. Sound, light, colour, smells...they all ADD to the moment of rapture when creating the work, and for me as an artist, there is nothing quite like that pure energy of creating the "feeling" of what you have in that one moment and place.
Visiting this place was a great inspiration for me. I would say it was one of the most stirring and inspiring moments of my visit, and I am grateful that the Haida Nation, these Elders and members stood so firmly to protect this place. We should do the same now, as the Northern Gateway Pipeline Project by Enbridge threatens once again, this magnificent culture and ecosystem. Stand up and speak out about the effects that this pipeline will have on habitat, culture and the ecology of our planet. Write your MP and the official opposition. Make yourself heard...and be part of the new "Line".
What a lovely day to begin spring plain air painting. Here was my setup this afternoon in Kananaskis.
