Houston

After an enjoyable stop over at Wells, we proceeded towards Houston to paint the portion of the pipeline route between Burns Lake and the Morice River. The landscape is dominated by rolling hills and scattered lakes. A large wildfire had swept across the area leaving towering black sentinels as a reminder of the forces of nature that are constantly at play and out of our control.

Burnt Forest, Parrott Lake (8X10) oil on panel. G. Clark

The stochastic nature of wildfires leaves many stands of forest unburnt, creating a patchwork mosaic of colour across the landscape. This resulting variety of habitats creates a high level of biodiversity and helps support the rich abundance of wildlife in the area.

Aspen, Lower Parrott Lake (8X10) oil on panel. P. Corbett

The proposed pipeline route then heads west and enters the Morice River at Owen Flats. Just 2 days prior to our arrival at the flats, a man while out fishing was seriously mauled by a female grizzly bear. Once again, we are humbled by the forces of nature, for we do not dominate this landscape and must learn to live in harmony with the earth and respect the natural powers that our stronger than ourselves.

Owen Flats, Morice River (8X10) oil on panel. G. Clark

 Campsite at Aspen, Morice River (8X10) oil on panel. P. Corbett