Hiking through my paintings

Last month, Kenny and I traded creature comforts for the wild beauty of the backcountry—at 10,000 feet. Backpacking at that altitude is no small feat, but the reward? Absolute solitude the first night, crisp alpine air, wildflowers in bloom, and views that took our breath away (even more than the climb).

Some of the most magical moments came as we hiked past views that I instantly recognized—not from memory, but from paintings I’d created years earlier. The light was different, the flowers not as plentiful, but it felt like stepping right into my own artwork. I even giggled a few times as the realization came into being.

Naturally, I took thousands of photos, lugging extra battery packs like they were gold (weight be damned). Every step, every vista, every sunlit ridge was worth it. I’m already buzzing with ideas for new paintings, and I can’t wait to share them with you.

Until then—explore mindfully, leave no trace, and if you’ve had an adventure you’d love to see captured in chalk pastels…I’d be honored to paint it for you.