After The Fire

A few years ago Colorado and Wyoming experienced some terrible fires, burning acres upon acres of land, leaving a new martian-esque landscape in place of what had once been dense forests. Last week I backpacked through an area that had been ablaze two years ago. Although I was shocked at the amount of devastation that had occurred, I was also amazed at the incredible LIFE that such a fire had caused. Aspen trees were in abundance, as well as bright yellow prairie smoke, bringing new color and life to the area. 

Not only was this new life breathtaking, but also the incredible sculptural remains from the burn: curled bark, charred black bark contrasted with the stark white revealed underneath, and graceful balancing acts--whole trees balancing on a thinly-chisled base.

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On my way back to the car, I noticed scattered pieces of charcoal on the ground. Inspired, I gathered a bag of the charcoal to inspire artwork of my own. Below is the first piece I created, incorporating that charcoal along with my usual bag of tricks. Inspiration can take so many different forms... may each of you find inspiration and wonder in whatever today brings your way! Cheers! :)