It is always exciting to paint en plein air, as the light itself, along with the subtle, atmospheric effects of light make it challenging and exciting. To roughly indicate the value masses, shapes and gradations while the wind is blowing, forces one to stay focused. The advantage of being surrounded by the scent of fir and pine, and the rich mosaic of habitats that they provide is so invigorating. It was my desire in this original painting, Oh Okanagan, to share the spiritual beauty of Okanagan Lake, as seen from the special vista above the lake on the Okanagan Connector. Setting up my easel facing south east was perfect to capture the bluffs on the west side of the lake, which included Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park with its secluded bays and sheltered sandy beaches, and Rattlesnake Island. As the light changed, I retreated back to my studio, to enable me to finish the landscape in more detail over several days.

I hope that this acrylic on canvas painting, Oh Okanagan, has a strong visual impact due to my bold use of colour, an appreciation of light, and emphasis on mood. So often my work is a celebration of nature, as I enjoy the outdoors immensely. I have a Bachelor of Education from the University of British Columbia, and completed art education courses in the mid 1990s through the University of Victoria. I have active status with the Federation of Canadian Artists, and was proud to give a talk about my art work at the Penticton TEDx Penticton conference in 2012. I work out of my studio in Penticton, British Columbia, Canada.