“I first met adventure guides Al & Lin, owners of award winning Canoe North Adventures
in 2002 when I applied for representation in their Gallery.
Upon walking into the beautiful log studio in Hockley Valley Ontario, I was struck by gigantic photos of the Canadian North.
The images were instantly recognizable, for I had resided in the Yukon and traversed into Alaska.
New Red infused “Tree” 24×36 Original oil on canvas $1800.oo
Forming an immediate kinship with Al & Lin, we share a love of the Canadian Northern Wilderness, and passion for art.
Al’ s original northern infused pottery is collected around the globe and I consider him a great mentor in the business.”
(Al’s words of wisdom here )
~ Dawn Banning introduction for the Canoe North presentation at the Windsor/ Essex Canoe Club in 2012.
As Al flipped slides of northern paddling expeditions after my introduction, I understood the responsive awe from attendees.
The Arctic takes your breath away.
I have written about my impressions of the north here and here
Witnessing the north in autumn offers a banquet for the soul’s palate.
Vast crimson carpets spread before bold mountains under dancing night skies.
Mist that shrouds in mystery awarding an other-worldly experience.
The North is a place that captivates all your senses, infuses your blood and never leaves.
My friend Susan joined CNA on an autumn expedition, capturing images
on her journey I carried in my mind & heart for decades, generously sharing them for painting.
She writes” I feel free and unrestrained in the far north, yet challenged and inspired by the adventures. The North strips away the trivial pieces of life, and opens my mind to reflect on the guiding princples of my thoughts and actions.
I return home calm, energized, at peace with life.”
When Stew Turcotte saw the painting ‘Northern Light’ I created for the Circumpolar Arctic Studies Auction, he felt compelled to own it.
Northern Light ( far rt) shown with Robert Genn’s work in Turcotte’s home.
Stew shared stories of personal northern history & travels.
His parents met in the Yukon when his father, an RCMP officer was posted there. His mother worked in the Robert Service Bank.
The bank I was a client at nearly 30 years ago.
New Crimson study 5×7 canvas board – email for price
It isn’t surprising the northern wilderness creates unique bonding ties.
These days a friend is preparing for her first expedition to the far north.
She will traverse ancient rivers, walk crimson shores under shadows of majestic mountains, hoping to see for the first time night skies dance with glowing light.
After our conversations, the north is once again at the forefront of my mind.
I daydream of land awash in brilliant colour, peaceful serenity and vast wildness.
Transported, in heart & soul by the call of the north.