Hiking as Inspiration by Barbara Matthews

Green, nature’s calling card

Beckons all— enjoy, refresh,

Bring life’s meaning back

The hikes in the Pacific NW calm the spirit. I find myself seeking a hike when I’m agitated or needing to work through an issue. I come back with a new sense—of purpose, of resolve, and a feeling of accomplishment. These photos show the enchantment of recent hikes.  The historical time marked by the size of the trees also enhances the experience and offers a wonder.      

The rain forests motivated my piece, Cathartic Retreat, for the ACN ReVision exhibition.

Cathartic Retreat, 18"H x 36"W

An image of the rain forest that I found later reveals my almost literal composition—     

Cathedral Grove (Vancouver Island) Photographer Dermot O’Kane

Arizona trails represent an entirely different experience, but just as dramatic in color! Dusty orange sandstone in ochre and sienna are highlighted with boulders of blue here and there. It is interesting how these colors are complements on the color wheel. A feature of these hikes is the crunch of sandstone underfoot. It contrasts to the quiet of the NW trails that are padded with humus and pine needles. In the case of Arizona, desert’s time is marked in geological layers, accentuated with petroglyphs from cultures existing in a time long past.

 

        

 

My piece, Sedona Layers II, is part of the ACN Blurred Boundaries exhibition.

Sedona Layers II, 19"H x 24"W x 5"D

 

Haiku 'Green Calling Card' by Barbara Matthews