Tetons: Elk Self

Several years ago, while traveling through Buffalo, Wyoming, I came across a striking sight, a homemade scarecrow with antlers in an armless body, standing as a silent guard of someone's community garden. That image lingered in my mind, resurfacing after a recent trip to the Grand Tetons and frequent elk sightings near my home in Pine. I began to imagine myself with antlers.

an enchanting and regal adornment that speaks to the wild spirit of the mountains. This painting blends those inspirations, capturing the awe-inspiring presence of the Tetons alongside the mystical energy I feel in high alpine landscapes. It's a reflection of transformation, nature's grandeur, and the deep connection I share with the wilderness. And yet, I also wonder what happens when I shed those antlers.

Like an elk, I too experience cycles of growth and release. Shedding them feels like letting go of emotion or baggage, a natural renewal that allows for new beginnings.