Pumpkin Carving 2013

Santiago Celebrando el Día de los Muertos

Nature Watch

Keep close to nature's heart ...and break clear away, once in awhile, climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean. -John Muir

I know you haven't heard from me in awhile as I've been spending some much needed time in artistic exile. I've got sketches for two new children's books on my drawing table and boards sanded and ready to paint. I've just completed this poster and web banner for the USDA Nature Watch Program of the United States Forest Service. My artwork was designed to appeal to kids by blending touches of realism with a child's imagination. Now that our parks are again open it seemed the right time to reflect on these national treasures -home to amazing creatures.  Breathtaking places that are an authentic source of pride. In the mid 1800's a group of visionary thinkers believed these treasures could rival the great castles and cathedrals of Europe. One of those idealists was the naturalist John Muir whose poetic voice, like the cry of a falcon reminded us that wild places were essential for the soul.  

He wisely reflected that "The power of imagination makes us infinite".