Chasing Shadows

Chasing Shadows

12x12, soft pastel

     

This is a very special scene because my stepson Travis took the amazing photo that inspired this painting while covering the 2016 Iditarod for Filson.  I believe this was on the last leg of the race near Nome, AK. At first glance from afar, it looked to me like a blue streaked meteor shower.  Then, (considering the title) I realized the crazy blue streaks were of course tree shadows...and next, after further review, I noticed the tracks, sled, musher and his dogs.  It was a picture that made me stop and look around at all it had to offer.  It was a delight to have the details unfold before my eyes and such fun to paint!   Thank you Travis, you inspire me! 

Fly 4 - Evening Breeze

Evening Breeze

5x7, soft pastel

Here in Idaho, we are experiencing a week of very cold weather.  So, the title of this next fly (a featherwing streamer) captured my imagination.  I’m looking forward to the cool summer evenings! 

Tying this fly consists of using copper wire, silver tinsel, pheasant and peacock feathers…oh yes, and a little white bucktail. I find it amazing the furs and feathers used it the construction of a fly.  

Below is an image of the anatomy of a salmon fly…for your enjoyment and my future reference.  While this is a salmon fly and not a featherwing streamer, you get the idea of what goes into the making of a fly.  The image is of a fly called a Silver Doctor tied by Jack Madden.