Through the Rapids, Acrylic, 48x36 , $3600

Through the Rapids, acrylic on canvas, 48″x36″

$2,800.00

Through the Rapids was born from the profound connection I feel to nature while paddling our waterways. The composition was directly inspired by my son’s expressive exclamation- “Oh, Boy!”- as he faced a massive swell while maneuvering the Dumoine River rapids, meeting the heavy water with hopeful determination. At its core, this painting explores our universal struggles and perseverance through life’s sudden turbulences.

The bright red kayak, the solitary human-made element within the scene, represents our collective life journey, its vivid hue contrasting sharply against the wild environment. To convey the raw energy of the river, I combined contrasting artistic styles: the stylized, rhythmic mosaic dabs and pointillist patterns of the inner water are completely enveloped by heavy, heavily textured white waves rushing along the outer borders.

The single paddle breaking through the cresting spray creates a direct diagonal link to the grey seagull soaring above, representing an ability to rise above the chaos. By using the massive, cascading foam to hide the identity of who is steering the vessel, the painting reminds us that this navigator can be any one of us.   We struggle, we persevere, and we live.

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