Yukon Trumpeter

Several years ago, Maureen and I had the opportunity to spend some time in Alaska. We stayed at a little resort near Soldatna located on the shore of a couple of quaint little lakes. Though we spent most of our time fishing on the Kenai and Kasilof rivers, we also enjoyed the beautiful setting where we stayed.

A majestic trumpeter swan (cob) had claimed this particular lake as “his” and each morning he patrolled the shallows, grazing along the way. I’m sure he and his mate had a nest nearby, but we never saw her (pen) or the little ones (signets). Ever since, I have wanted to paint this beautiful, majestic cob … he was huge! I finally mustered up the courage to try to paint him in the early morning hours using dramatic lighting and shadows.