The Northwoods Spirit

The Moose. There is no animal that better embodies the sheer scale and quiet dominance of the Minnesota Northwoods. This creature is a true monarch of the deep forests and wetland bogs I’ve called home.
This painting is my attempt to capture the moment of encountering this massive, solitary animal. It’s not just a depiction of a moose; it’s a representation of the energy it radiates—a feeling that is both ancient and intensely alive.
My expressive brushwork focuses on creating a dynamic aura around the animal, using strong, bold strokes to convey its solid, undeniable mass and the vibrant, reflective light of the northern landscape. The overall effect gives the moose an aura of almost mythical power.
When I look at this piece, I feel the chill of the early morning air and the immense, humbling presence of the wilderness. It is a tribute to the resilient spirit and quiet majesty that define the most iconic animal of my home state.