Somewhere in the Cascades

In Oregon, we have many forested parks-some in the city and some in our multiple mountain ranges. At the western base of the Cascade mountains here in Oregon are some of the most enchanting places to explore. It's real treat to walk through these spaces, and I always wonder what we cannot see with our eyes. 

One such place is very sacred and not easy to get to. Opal Creek Wilderness is one of Oregon's gems, and in August of 2020 my husband and I made the 7.5 miles out and back hike to see this amazing spot. Incredibly, we had it all to ourselves. I waded into this pool, and yes the sunlight was magical.

Sadly, just a couple of weeks later, this pristine area was devastated by a wildfire. I am very grateful we made this hike when we did and captured it with amazing photos.

The old growth forests of Oregon inspired my imagination to find the hidden folk of these magical places. This is a second of a series using ink and watercolor to portray what I always hope to find during those opportunities of trekking through the Oregon woods. At the base of an ancient tree lives someone who has made a cozy home.

Fairy Forest

 Lately I have been reading more fantasy novels and find my imagination inspired by the other worldly scenes described in these books. I finished Mythago Wood by Robert Holdstock recently and now about half way through Stardust by Neil Gaiman. 

A hike around Mirror Lake in Mt Hood National Forest gave me an idea for my next project. The views of Mt Hood were incredible, and we had gorgeous weather.

The hike itself was steep up to this view, as this is a glacial lake! The trail was super forested and this kept us cool as we climbed up. 

This magical walk made me think of how cool it would be to see a big mushroom house for the fairy folk, and so I created what my imagination envisioned. This is 9 X 12 hot press paper with fine liner and watercolors.