On a very snowy spring afternoon I hiked up a steep slope with a couple of new friends in search of ptarmigan.  Climbing up and across the crunchy, icy, snow-covered slope was honestly a little gnarly and a little exciting. My friend Andy located them!

Sitting with these birds, in their habitat, who thrive in harsh conditions, stirred my soul. The world stood still for the length of time I quietly observed and listened to them.

Thick, gray clouds rolled in, dropping snow at a fierce clip.  If not for the changing weather conditions I could have stayed and watched and sketched these birds for hours. They are beautiful.

Ptarmigan Storm watercolor 22x15”, unframed

NOTE: These images will be replaced with professional photos ASAP. :)