A Long-Tailed Weasel in Banff National Park of the Canadian Rockies.

The weasel is part of the weasel family, as are ermines, ferrets, minks, fishers, badgers and wolverines. Though weasels are common, I had not seen one before this day. He wasn't accustomed to humans, and was as curious about me as I was of him. He crawled up the tree beside me, and stood on a couple of branches in order to get a good look. His curiosity made taking his photograph, and choosing his image for a painting very easy.

Of note in this work is the influence of Emily Carr. Carr is one of Canada's greatest painters, and is known for her depictions of the landscape of British Columbia. The light blue-green carefree colours of the background were chosen with a clear thought of how Carr might finish this work.

Tourists for all over the world come to Banff to play in the mountains, hot springs, rivers and ski resorts. The mountains, wildlife and wide open spaces are a part of how Canadians see ourselves, just as the national animal - the beaver - is part of our identity. It is through these ideals that I express the appreciation that I have for, and what it means to me to be Canadian.

All of the animals that I paint I have seen, as I work from my own photography.

Please note:
1. This work is finished with five layers of varnish to protect it from UV light and dust.
2. The work does not come framed, but the edges are both painted white and varnished.
3. A wire is pre-installed and the work is ready to hang.
4. My signature appears on the front of the work and my Certificate of Authenticity is included.