What inspires you?

We all enjoy the grand sites of nature. The mountains in any season, towering majestically,  challenging the imagination of those at the base as well as the climbers. The ocean vastness swelling with the tides, crashing onto rocky shores  and stretching beyond the horizon.  Forests of all climate zones teeming with variety, swaying just below the heavens, creating life on the forest floor. Sands shifting and moving at seaside, lakeside or within a river's flow. Flora growing with infinite beauty in all shades and  colours, shapes and sizes. In nature there is an endless supply for inspiration to delight everyone.

But what moves the heart? What causes the soul of the viewer to embrace the scene, the image? Perhaps clichéd but "home is where the heart is" has application here. Certain views never get old because we are tied to the positive emotions of the place or event.

I started taking photos of the South Saskatchewan River because we often walked and kayaked there. We still enjoy the ever-changing elements of water, sky, sun and clouds from our favorite spots in all seasons.  Fields, pastures, the sweep of the land, the changes and growth from early spring until late harvest remind us of those who have loved and worked the land as we have. Each person feels the pull of a landscape that holds their memories.

As an artist, I paint what I know and love.  When I have walked the trail and taken the photo, I am reminded of the what I hold close as I paint the scene. The finished piece brings a smile because of the memory it evokes.  In my choice of scenes to paint,  I hope that I can also capture a similar remembrance for those who enjoy my work. I know from their reactions that we have been inspired by similar views, a piece of home that is dear to us. I am always warmed by comments like, "That's just like our pature gate when we were on the farm." Or, "I love our prairie skies." Or, "We feed these birds in our yard all winter." I know that we are sharing what moves us, the experience or memory that the painting reminds us of each time we look at it.

There have been a few extra special times when the person who has bought or commissioned the piece has been overcome by that connection.  I am also moved by the tears and the hug but also delighted that the artwork will do it's real work in their hearts and homes. 

What inspires me as an artist? It is both the scenes that move my heart and the hope that I can place a painting in your home that might bring you joy daily.

What inspires you? Does it bring joy?