Artwork description:

The thing about heraldry is that there is some physical evidence in the choice of color. Why burnt orange for the school colors? Why the name of a mountain range reflects a natural phenomenon? Texas has the most beautiful sunsets. It almost glows in the distance as it sinks in the western horizon with a warm orange hue.

The linocut Above Iron Gate is from the Pecos Wilderness series. It’s the final trailhead, the place where you gather and check your gear, sign and date the registration form and read current reports, a journal left by fellow campers. Information such as recent trails blocked by storms, fishing good or not so at Johnson lake, and bear sightings. It’s required at this remote access and helps with search and rescue efforts. Signing in lets the rangers know who is in the wilderness and their planed route, can be crucial for search and rescue operations if needed.

The Pecos trail is an ancient pathway between the Pueblo and Southern Plains Indians, then Spanish settlers, then traders on the Santa Fe Trail. The Spanish explorer Antonio Valverde y Casio in 1719, impressed at the sunrise, the red-tinted snowy peaks, when first sighting the southern Rocky Mountains, called them Sangre de Cristo Mountains or Blood of Christ.
This linoleum print is the first in the series, and captures the morning light signaling adventure, exploration and anticipation. Knowing I’m not the first to enter but following the shadows of ancient eyes.

Materials used:

Daniel Smith Traditional Black Relief Ink on Zerkall Book Smooth Cream over Somerset Satin White 250gm

Tags:

#historical #nature #unique #sublime #american #spiritual #ancient #dreamscape #journey #uplifting #dramatic #portal #refreshing #restorative #entrancing