Artist Blog — Painting Journeys
Where wilderness adventure meets creative insight
Welcome to my blog, where I share the stories behind my paintings — from backcountry expeditions and plein air challenges to the creative decisions that shape my studio practice. Here, you’ll discover how the dramatic landscapes of the Canadian Rockies, Yukon, High Arctic, Patagonia, and beyond influence my art.
Follow along as I document:
Travel journals from remote painting journeys
Plein air experiences in dynamic weather and rugged terrain
Studio process transforming field studies into large-scale works
Creative tips for painting mountains, glaciers, forests, and desert landscapes
Environmental reflections inspired by the changing wilderness
Through each post, I hope to bring you closer to the inspiration, discipline, and joy of wilderness landscape painting — and encourage others to explore and protect our planet’s wildest places.
Notes from the Field: Arriving in Ecuador.
It has been already few days since I arrived in Ecuador and it is one again full-on South America adventure.
The altitude of capital city Quito took some time to get used to. Coming from ocean level of Vancouver Island to 2850m is never easy.
After visiting the Centro Historico and searching for oil mediums and mineral spirits to clean my brushes it was a time to hit the road. Mariko and I travelled to Papallacta, a small village high in the Andean cloud forest famous for its amazing hot springs (termas).
It was extremely gratifying to soak and relax after hard days of traveling. The rat race of Canada was starting to take its toll on me in last few years and being in South America defiantly suites my character and creative mind.
As much as it was nice to soak my tired body, I had to visit the neighboring Cayambe Coca Ecological Reserve. My hike took me to 4000m where I ended up painting and racing approaching rain and lack of visibility. The second day proved to be easier as I captured the morning view of Antisana Volcano.
‘Cayambe Coca’ 14” x 11” oil on board
‘Antisana Rising’ 14” x 11” oil on board