During the recent storm I wasted no time to explore, I am seeking winter subject matter for future paintings. This heavy undisturbed 18″ snow layer will not remain for long. Soon the winds will shift it into piles and blow the tree branches clean, but at the moment it is true magic. I tramped my way on to the lake and began to follow deep ruts created by snow machines soon adjusting to make my own trail. The cold sting in my finger tips vanished as I began to sweat, and whenever I stopped to take a photo my eyeglasses fogged. I was alone, as I scanned the lake I spotted the tiny shape of another skier about a mile away. Perfect. At the island fresh moose tracks meandering in and out of snow laden willows along the shore. I paused and searched hoping the giant ungulate was gone, later I relaxed when I saw tracks crossing to the opposite shore. The landscape will be stunning when the sun comes out, I hope the sun beats the wind.
Gail Niebrugge, Alaska artist
