Month: June 2013

Painting Through Prosek: Silver Trout (Extinct)

The Silver Trout is only recorded in history briefly, at the end of the 19th century. Whatever the cause of its extinction, Prosek pays homage with a simple recreation. Similar to a brook trout with out the pattern along its back, crimson belly and fins, and red and yellow spots on its side. 
Again, I find myself dabbling with water color techniques with the acrylic paint to achieve a likeness to Prosek’s fish. And, again, I struggle to get the colors how I want them. I also need to continue to focus on proportions. 
This was the first time I incorporated the fins into the painting. That was an adventure. 

If you are interested in picking up a copy of James Prosek’s “Trout: An Illustrated History,” you might be able to find it at your local book store, fly shop, or online. 

Art By an Owl

No, this isn’t “Art by an Owl” where they give an actual feathered owl a paintbrush and have it paint a flower like those elephants in Thailand do. This is art by a person named Owl.

I recently put forth an idea to an up-and-coming young artist that goes by the name of “Owl.” I’m very interested in the different ways people paint fish and trout and Owl has a unique approach that definitely brings a surprisingly unconventional and exciting perspective to these fish. When I asked him if he would be interested in an “art swap,” I wasn’t sure what he would say, because, well, I’m no Owl Jones, but to my surprise he agreed!

I’ve been slowly working through my project called “Painting Through Prosek.” I’ve been painting my acrylic way through Prosek’s book “Trout: An Illustrated History.” I tried extra hard on the brook trout and thought Owl might like this.

Over the next few days, I believe he will be finishing up the project he has been working on for me. I’ve had sneek peeks on his Facebook Page because, well, you see, today is National Owl Jones Art Day. That’s right, he made a day for himself. I can’t believe I didn’t think of such a brilliant idea first 🙂
All I can say to wrap up this post is to support your local artist, fly shop, retailer, farmer and family member. Great things don’t always come from the big stores with low prices. 

Worth a Glance: "A Walk in the Woods" by Bill Bryson

I just finished Bill Bryson’s “A Walk in the Woods.” I’m sure many of you have read it or heard of it. It is an account of Mr. Bryson’s time spent hiking the Appalachian Trail. It is an easy and funny read. Most importantly, he takes the reader along with him. By the end of the book, I felt I was right there, feeling the same bitter sweet thoughts that the satisfyingly difficult journey was over.

I also was reminded of the simple truth that time spent in the outdoors brings appreciation for the outdoors.

If you are looking for a good book this summer or would like to learn a little more about the Appalachian Trail and haven’t read Bryson’s book, I highly recommend you do. You won’t be sorry.

Greenlife Adventure Sports: A New Outdoor Store in Norfolk, Virginia

I finally had the opportunity to stop by the new local outdoor store in town: Greenlife Adventure Sports. They have some great products. They carry Khul, Patagonia, Mountain Hardware, Chaco, an on and on. They have a pretty nice inventory of camping gear. It must have been some time since I’ve looked at the ultra-light gear, because, wow, it is pretty darn awesome. 
The Gear Room

Wall of suggested hikes. 

I like the new gopros. 

Hammocks and bags. 

I have a thing for pataganoia shoes. The thing is, I like them. 

Great items on clearance. 

Plenty of trail running gear. 

Stop by and see these guys. Support local!