Image 6" x 9"

The West Coast of Vancouver Island has always been a magical place for me. I have experienced every season and each one of them has something unique to offer. However, the one thing that the seasons share is the surf. Sometimes it is exciting with storm force winds and driving rain. Other times, as depicted in this image, it is quite peaceful almost soothing. It is always interesting to observe how people interact with the surf.

Image 14" x 26"

The wild Elk herds of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem have been on my bucket list for a long time. This past fall we had the pleasure of observing these majestic animals just as the herds were transitioning from their summer grazing range down to the lower elevations in preparation for the fall rut and the long cold winter ahead. We were treated to the eerie bugling calls echoing over the valleys during the long, cold, snowy nights but the beasts eluded us by day.  Hope was almost lost of seeing the large herd I had imagined in my mind until, on our last day in the area, we crested a ridge and spotted a large bull with his harem. I am very happy to say that it was well worth the wait and a perfect end to the journey. I would now like to introduce you to the sight I had hoped to see,  Before the Snow Flies – Elk.

Image Size 8” x 16”

Almost every wildlife encounter has that one special moment. Sometimes it’s a split second other times it seems to last forever. When it happens you know you are experiencing a special connection. In moments like this I often wonder whether this creature is as curious about me as I am about them. With this piece I wanted to share with you my “Special Moment” and let you get an Eye to Eye connection with nature.

Image Size 11.5” x 25”

Every fall Grizzly Bears gather along the rivers of Canadas’ West Coast to feed on the returning salmon runs. These spawning salmon provide the nourishment these large, powerful creatures and their families require to survive until spring. Thanks to the people of the Klahoose, Homalco and Heiltsuk First Nation I have had the privilege of witnessing such a glorious, abundant feast. With dedication and the continued stewardship efforts of our indigenous people the Grizzlies will continue to thrive for many years to come as they have since time immemorial.

Image Size 10” x 20” Original SOLD

This giant surfaced right beside us while aboard a Raincoast Conservation Foundations' research vessel “Achiever” off BC's Central Coast near the Great Bear Rainforest. As the water sheeted off its massive fluke like a beautiful waterfall we could see all the nicks and scars that life had given it. Humpbacks first reappeared around our local Discovery Islands in 2011 after they were hunted almost to extinction in the area in 1869. Last summer over 90 individual whales were routinely spotted feeding around these islands. With a bit of help and protection, future generations will continue to chase these magnificent waterfalls for years to come.

Image Size 12.5" x 22"  "ORIGINAL SOLD"

As one of the most revered and misunderstood predators, the Wolf has suffered as a political scape goat by many governments which has resulted in misguided and inhumane culling practices.  Science has shown throughout North America, the importance of wolves as a crucial species in a balanced and complete ecosystem.  A lone a wolf pack  is a brilliant example of a successful society; members working together to take care of and protect each other.  Stand tall, wolf, for you deserve respect for your strength and resilience in the face of your adversary.

Image 11" x 17"

I had the privilege of visiting the Canadian Great Bear Rainforest--a magical place of pristine ecosystems --with a group of master artists that I admire, respect and who have nurtured my own creative process.While on a hike together, outside of Klemtu, we were entertained by the ritual dance of an American Dipper feeding her chick. This simple, bowing down, closed-eye posture is not unlike the thank-you gesture that humans exchange after receiving their gifts. In this piece I’d like to honour and thank the friends that have nurtured me over the years and give this drawing as my gift to you.

Image Size 6" x 16" ORIGINAL SOLD

Many times the goal of people that admire wildlife is to get close… moving in from an environmental view to get a real sense of an individual. I find as an artist a subject speaks to me in a whole new way when it allows me to be close; to listen and observe. A quiet conversation opens up that, without words, gives voice to a feeling through expressions, movements, glances and in the details of their condition. They tell you about where they live and what their life is like and things they have done. With this piece I would like to invite you in close…really REALLY close. Listen. See if you can hear what this Arctic Wolf is saying.

Image Size 9" x 16"         "ORIGINAL SOLD"

Ravens are fascinating – their cunning vocalizations, gestures and extravagant aerial displays while on the wing – everything about them. Indigenous people share ancient legends revering the Raven, a powerful figure who transformed the world, who did so by cleverly deceiving others and thus he is also known as the Trickster. I was thrilled to meet this particularly massive Raven while visiting the traditional territory of the Kitasoo/Xai’Xais people in the Great Bear Rainforest. While we explored the village of Klemtu with the Elders this Raven followed, adding his own commentary to our journey.  He was quite chatty with our group and came in close to share his own story, perhaps to school us in the Trickster’s ways?

Image Size 10" x 20"  "SOLD"

It’s a rare moment to be in nature without inadvertently startling a would-be subject even with the most careful of footfalls or paddle strokes. If unsuccessful that quiet, breath-taking, still moment becomes a fleeting memory. This piece is about capturing those remembered moments.  Art gives a viewer those seconds and minutes or even days back to notice the details that make those moments so special.  Things like the relaxed posture of the heron or the delicate textures hidden in the reflections on the surface of the water.  You might even notice the soft, gently blowing feathers caused by a light summer breeze.  These are the moments that remind us that we are connected in this beautiful place and I hope to convey how much I cherish these moments in the creating of this piece.

Image 9" x 16.75"  "SOLD"

It is always a treat to encounter these playful, social, high energy creatures while out on the water. Living on the coast of British Columbia, the ocean is an integral part of our daily lives. It is a highway, a pantry, a gym and even a TV.  These cetaceans joined us while a friend and I were out on an afternoon run around the Discovery Islands on what would've otherwise been a dreary, rain-soaked early spring afternoon. To see these mammals I feel is something very special and almost magical. The moment that they break the surface to breath or flip through the air or even just play, simply has to be experienced. 

Image Size 12" x 27"

I am privileged to live in a very beautiful part of the world. I can grab my camera, kayak and within minutes be in the middle of amazing west coast beauty.  One memorable moment happened while paddling around the Breton Islands on the NE coast of Quadra Island BC.  The seal pups were out for a late afternoon swim under the close supervision of the grown-ups.  I was floating along in the sunshine, soaking it all in when right in front of me a pup, and then his mother, surfaced.   Two sets of big brown eyes looked at me--it was pretty exciting to witness as mom looked to the pup, touched nose to cheek in reassurance that all was ok.  I’m glad I can share this Endearing Moment with you through my pencil.

Image 9.5" x 13"

I had been concerned about the impact of oil tankers plying our pristine coastal waters for some time so when the invitation to participate in the “Canada’s Rain Coast at Risk: Art for an Oil Free Coast” Project came I couldn’t wait to be a part of it.  What a humbling, experience-of-a-lifetime this has been for me; to be a part of such an important project and contribute alongside many of BC’s best contemporary artists. It was an honour to visit the Kitasoo/ XaiXais people in their traditional territory and learn of their customs and centuries-old way of life. I choose sea otters as my subject because they represent community and family to me; they depend on each other and on the very kelp forests and waters that are at risk.  Pockets of their populations are finally returning after being decimated to near extinction.  We need to protect this valuable habitat not just for the sea otters or out of respect for our resilient first people but for all of our communities and families for generations to come.

Image 10" x 14.75" ORIGINAL SOLD

Kayaking the quiet, secluded coves around my west coast home is one of my favourite pastimes. Paddling always seem to attract an entourage of curious wildlife to share the journey with me. Whether it’s the Bald Eagles in the trees or the seals in the water, there is always a collection of characters to keep me company. There is another fellow explorer that isn’t so quiet. He’s quick to join me, chattering and chirping, flitting from perch to perch in search of his next meal. He teases me by sitting just long enough to lure me into pulling out my camera before he flits away to his next perch laughing the whole way. It is difficult to get a nice long look at a Kingfisher. With this piece I’d like to give you a rare moment in time so that you might be able to sit and observe my little friend for a little bit longer. "The Princes' Perch - Belted Kingfisher”

Image Size:  8.25" x 16.5"

Spring is once again in the air - the remembered feeling of heat from the sun and the return of the colourful bird songs.  With spring comes the ritual of nesting; the building and repairing of nests to welcome this years' brood of young.  While out enjoying a beautiful spring day at the Village Bay Lakes I had the privilege of witnessing the energetic nesting behaviour of a female Rufous Hummingbird as she zoomed along the waters' edge to gather supplies. It was the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon outdoors Among the Cat Tails.

Image Size 14" x 23.5"

Witnessing large herds of wild bison thundering across the vast plains of Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons National Parks is one of those rare privileges that should not be missed.  This past summer I was able to observe young bison with their herds  as they roamed upon the prairie and learned about life.  Experiences like this in Nature are diminishing by the day and although the numbers are smaller now the experience was magnificent.  This piece depicts a young bison and his struggle against predators and man on his journey to becoming a powerful adult. May he always have a place to grow and be free for many years to come.

Image 10" x 13"

I have always found the small sculptured elements of faces that are seen in the facades of old stone buildings around the world intriguing. The idea for this piece was inspired by a church in Victoria BC, but only recently came to life upon discovering a new technique that represented rock/stone texture. I always wonder about the back stories of these little spirits living within these walls--a lofty life lived now honoured and immortalized. Upon seeing this particularly melancholy character, I couldn't help but think that his sadness is based on the fact that his head is the perfect perch for many a pigeon and he will now be forever…. Less Than Impressed.

Image 12" x 24"  "SOLD"

If you've ever stood on the rugged, rocky terrain of the West Coast of Canada, you've experienced a sense of the immense and awe-inspiring power of nature. Everything that exists on the shoreline appears to be struggling just to survive. There are creatures though, that were made for the coast, that thrive in adversity--one particular creature glides past you so effortlessly and confident. It is in its element, strong and ready to take on all that is the West Coast. The majestic, graceful and also very powerful in it's own right…..  Bald Eagle.

Image 11" x 27"

Growing up I was told I was somewhat of a daydreamer; now I can bring these daydreams to life through sketching and photographs. When observing locations for a piece I often return to the same spot at different times of the day, year and in changing lighting conditions to find inspiration. This helps me visualize the same scene in different ways.  I had been to this location frequently but it was the day that a blanket of snow covered the area and a chill was in the air that I could imagine a small group of wolves emerging out of the tree line.

Image 12" x 24"

All things in nature are linked in a very delicate balance. The earth to the water that covers it. The water to the fish that swim in it. The fish to the creatures that feed on it and the creatures to the humans that share it. Without balance everyone and everything is effected.  The Great Blue Heron is just one of those majestic, regal and sometimes very awkward creatures contributing and dependent on this balance.

While returning from a multi-day kayak trip to the remote Octopus Islands on the north coast of Quadra Island, my partner and I were paddling south bound when the hairs on the back of my neck stood up.  My eyes locked on a powerful gaze from the shore. Standing firm behind a log on the beach was my first ever wolf sighting.  As the wind was calm and the water flat, you could hear it sniffing the air trying to catch our scent as we drifted not 20 feet from shore.  Once I got past the shock of being in the presence of a real wolf, I took in its mangy condition, large paws and modest disposition as it went about its exploration of the beach before disappearing back into the brush.  It was then that I knew it was an image that must be captured.

Image 10" x 13"

Sea Kayaking along Canada’s rugged West Coast can come with many spectacular rewards.   During a gruelling paddle in Nootka Sound, filled with many days of relentless rain, my wife captured this beautiful morning on a beach of Bligh Island.  An already peaceful, misty scene is painted with a warm glow as a golden ray of sunbeams through the clouds. I am a big fan of eagle watching and it seems it is often moments such as this that an eagle will casually happen past. With this piece I wanted to combine this calm, warm glow of the morning light on the coast, with the silent passage of the majestic eagle in search of its morning meal.

Image 7" x 11"  "SOLD"

There always seems to be a bit of magic present when someone experiences wildlife up close. This is especially the case when this encounter is with a baby of the species. Seals and seal pups are naturally curious creatures with large, deep, obsidian eyes and for some reason they love to follow kayaks. The adults prefer a more stealthy surveillance while young pups can pop up only a few feet away.  While kayaking in nearby Gowlland Harbour we are frequently treated to this spectacle. With this piece, I would like to share with you a little of this magic.

Image 7" x 11"   "ORIGINAL SOLD"

While living in the Comox Valley on the east coast of Vancouver Island, I always enjoyed frequenting the local beaches during the hot summers. I always found fascination with all of the little sea birds that danced up and down the beach on the incoming water in search of little bits of food. This little guy spent a long time in the froth of the incoming tide. He followed the leading edge of bubbles, dancing in and out and always expertly staying dry. Next time your sitting and enjoying a few rays on a nice day, take the time to observe the little birds that are sharing the shoreline. You will find their dance entertaining as well I’m sure.

Image 6" x 14" ORIGINAL SOLD

The west coast of British Columbia, Canada is home to many hidden magical places, so when it was time to compose a piece for our wedding invitation our visit to Tonquin Beach in Tofino provided easy inspiration. At the end of the path, our breath was unexpectedly caught the moment the thick rainforest parted to reveal this pristine cove. With this piece I wanted to show how we are surrounded by the extraordinary and all that is required sometimes is to take the time to look.

Image 8" x 14"

The first time we experience something often seems to be the most memorable. This picture was inspired by the first time that I ventured to the West Coast of Vancouver Island. It was wintertime and the height of storm season.  I was struck by the awe-inspiring power and beauty of this natural world as I explored the desolate shoreline on the edge of the Pacific Ocean.

Image 8.5" x 14"

Sometimes some of the best artistic inspiration comes from sources right outside the door.  The many bird feeders around my property attract many fine subjects for my artistic explorations. In this case, several Dark Eyed Juncos provided me with hours of enjoyment; each individual came with a different look and personality. I hope I have captured my favourites in this Triptych.

Image 10" x 13"  "SOLD"

Bute Inlet, cutting into the Coastal Mountain Range of mainland British Columbia, is renowned for it’s majestic mountain vistas, rugged unsettled land and Grizzly Bears.  In the fall of 2008, I experienced these bears up close and personal at Orford River; so close at some points it was all I could do to stand my ground. Thank goodness for our guide and his “bear stick”.   With this piece I hope to give you an up close glimpse of this magnificent giant.  May they continue to fish these waters long after we leave.

Image 6" x 8"  "Original SOLD"

Some of the most fascinating creatures to me are the ones that mysteriously operate under the cover of night.  One of those creatures is the Great Horned Owl.  The captivating gaze of the owl with it’s big, round, childlike eyes are so full of mystery that they can grab you and hold you. They portray an innocence that masks the skilled, silent hunters of the night. This is the characteristic that I hoped to catch most in this portrayal of the Great Horned Owl.

Image 6" x 9"  "Original SOLD"

Since moving to Quadra Island a few years ago, I am constantly amazed by the calibre and diversity of artists in this community along with the embracing support Islanders extend to each other. This piece represents an example of this generous community spirit.  The Cape Mudge Boatworks features a local artist’s work on their annual Christmas card and this year commissioned my piece titled “The Boatworks”.   A Great Blue Heron huddled against a winter morning’s mist provided further inspiration to this classic Quadra Landmark.

Image 8" x 11"

My work as a crew boat operator takes me to many remote areas of the West Coast of B.C. where wind, tide, current and shore conditions can be unpredictable.  I have an ever-present companion who watches over me as I travel and work in his domain. Sometimes he treats me to an awe-inspiring display of hunting or simply stretches his graceful wings to soar on a thermal. I’d like to pay tribute to my majestic companion through this portrait. This immature Bald Eagle will soon choose a mate and conquer the domain he was born to rule.

Image 8" x 11"

One of my favourite local walks is around the grounds of the April Point Resort on Quadra Island. This time of year the resort is closed so I had the splendid northwest view toward Steep Island and the Discovery Passage to myself.  It was a very peaceful scene after a fierce storm; the lighting and cloud formations were perfect and the breeze was fresh after the rain.  Out of nowhere, I imagined, a pod of Orca unexpectedly break the surface with there snorts and blows. I imagined they were out for their afternoon stroll. Funny thing–only a short time after my walk, a small pod was spotted in this location. Sometimes timing is everything. Enjoy.

Image 8" x 11"

Sea Lion colonies are common along the Coast of Vancouver Island.  One must simply follow the roar of their booming songs to find them.  This image came to me while observing a colony on Stubbs Island located east of Telegraph Cove in the Johnstone Strait. Several individuals were in the water swimming, snorting and slapping, while these three on shore were busy singing, barking and fighting for position on the rocks. When I saw them I couldn’t help but ponder what they were up to or what they might be singing about. As I was busy daydreaming and digging into the minds of sea lions, thankfully my partner was busy shooting the reference for this piece. I hope you enjoy the outcome of our joint effort. I really enjoyed the adventure of bringing this one to life for you.