Every summer is an opportunity to go on an adventure to paint outdoors and take in the amazing scenery we are so fortunate to have in our backyard.  Calgary offers us the best of both; amazing city views of the Rocky mountains and only a day trip to be in awe of their majestic presence.  A feeling like no other; a sense of freedom, a breath of fresh air, a calmness.  The closer you get the more it pulls you in and makes you want to never leave.  Canmores Quarry Lake; is a calm spot below the mountains peaks.  A group of us had made the trip and we set up our oil paints; ready to spend the day.  There was a constant flow of people walking, hiking, and heading to the lakes shore for kayaking.  You could not help but hear the flow of conversations, little comments from afar and related interest as they approached and came closer for a better look, over my shoulder.  The hours flew by like minutes until it was necessary to take a break; recharge with some food and make plans for the evening paint out.   We returned to Quarry Lake later that evening and waited on the evening light to inspire our second paintings. Though the light didn't develop to the degree we had hoped it still was a productive evening as we completed our second painting of the day; an end to a perfect day.

Jerry Markham was with us that day; his knowledge and patience as a plein air painter was priceless.  We had too short a time with him so I can only look forward to another opportunity to learn from him.  In the mean time, I'll take the advice he gave - 'read Carlton' {which I have but will go back and read again}.  'Page 33 Jerry said!' 'Read it till you can teach it'.  As with all areas of Art; theory is only the half of it; consistency with your artwork is the real challenge.

Day two; up early, a quick breakfast and off to a new location with Terry Miura.  Along River Front Park, just off Canmore's town center. Standing along the river, looking at four Mountain peaks, a decision on what to paint was the first challenge of the day.  Ha Ling Peak had an interesting story.  Also known as Chinamen's Peak, named after the man who climbed the peak in 6 hours.  It surely seemed like it could keep my attention long enough to develop a painting.  The weather in the Rockies is always unpredictable and we experienced it first hand on this day; the winds would come out of nowhere; strong, bold, and demanding.  Pushing our easels to the ground; artwork, brushes, everything in one big gust.  It only took a few 'gust' before we gave in to its warning and packed up our gear.  In hope of another day, another opportunity, to be in a location so inspiring.

  8" x 10" Oil 'Ha Ling Peak'