An Artist's Journey in Words and Pictures

An acrylic painting of a wolf resting in the snow, one of a current series of acrylic paintings.  I will always love working in pastels and will never abandon them, but  acrylics are an amazing medium.  Their quick-drying properties allow me to use them similar in some ways that I use pastels.,  but with brushes on canvas. As a bonus, the finished product is easier to ship, to frame and to hang.  Plus they are better for my health. They don't create dust in the air or on floors and furniture in my studio, and clean-up is almost a breeze.

The Wolf: Friend or Fiend?

Throughout history humans have been fascinated by wolves.  They have been so hated, feared, loved and revered  that it is nearly impossible to separate fact from legend.  The word "wolf" is  completely woven  into our culture and has come to mean all sorts of  different things.  We speak of either being a "lone wolf," or "running in a pack." A "wolf" may be a financial predator or an overly flirtatious man.  A "wolf whistle" might be flattering to some, but if you "cry wolf" you will bring trouble upon yourself.  You don't want  " the wolf at your door," especially if he is howling, and be sure avoid at all costs a "wolf in sheep's clothing." Above all, never, never "wolf down" your food, this is both ill mannered and very unhealthy.

Whether you see the wolf as a vicious beast or a noble creature depends a lot on your background and perhaps your experience with the animal.  I guess I would fall somewhere between the two. Like all wildlife, they are to be admired and respected, but from a safe distance, or a very strong fence.

Psalm 104:24 says it best

Oh Lord, what a variety of things you have made!

In wisdom You have made them all.

The earth is full of your creatures.

Special thanks to Kathrin Schlender for her wonderful reference photo.