This is the painting I had been building to with my 10″ studies of the Kootenai Valley. There is a mighty and powerful river there but I was entranced with the small trickling streams and ditches. Cold but amazing place. I wanted to stay until dark but when we nearly got the car stuck leaving seemed like a pretty good idea!
I had s little commission last week of the northern lights. I decided to do a second painting which I finished over the weekend!
Also I saw a moose Saturday!
I had a little commission painting this week. It was fun trying to create the magical feel of the aurora borealis.
The client is excited. Now I just need to varnish and sign the painting… and wait for the frame to show up!
I thought I would share a WIP on this Friday morning. The smooth sparkle of the water is feeling pretty good here.
The winter arrived late but with serious intent. Mornings dream like with mist lifting from the waves and through the forest. The water revealed as the color of dawn warms the sky if not the air.
I was going to take the day off. I find myself behind and needing to get more work framed and shipped out. Still with the sub freezing temperatures not a bad way to spend the day. I just framed this one and will be shipping it to California tomorrow!
The third painting inspired by the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge. I am currently working on an 18″x24″ piece in the same vein.
Apparently it is mid February. The sun is bright on our snow today. The lake is frozen but it doesn’t stop my love of water. The water froze just like your heart, I’m the only thing I can be.
Another small painting inspired by a beautiful wildlife refuge in North Idaho! The preserve is called Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge. It is nearly to Canada in the Idaho Panhandle.
Last weekend we took a little road trip to the Kootenai National wildlife refuge. We didn’t arrive until the evening but the lighting and views were magnificent! The main loop drive was closed for the winter, but worth the trek regardless!
I have done a few little winter scenes inspired by the evening. I hope to paint a larger image next.
brian sostrom 