24x30 acrylic on canvas

If you've boated or flown through Johnstone straits you've probably noticed the fjordlike mountains that line this stretch of coast. Most noticeable of these peaks is Mount H’kusam. Seemingly ever present and Lordy as it oversees all comings and goings in the waters below. 

This stretch of water has sunk many vessels, claimed many lives, produced many white knuckles and green faces with its sudden gales and ripping tides. To add to this delight, the waters are so frigid should some sorry soul be released from the refuge of his vessel he should find himself hypothermic within minutes even in summer temperatures. 

We have endured many hairy trips to Port Neville in our time. In one instance, heading south to Kelsey bay one classic rough afternoon. While winds and tides were working together to prod, push, pull and spin us off course, our engine blew, leaving us dead in the water. Drifting broadside in waves that push you towards some rocky cliffs along the shoreline has a way of making one feel rather small. While receiving a tow to port I recall orcas who came to lift our spirits with a show, jumping and surfacing beside us, then looking up to see the watchtower, mount H’kusam, quietly observing the affair from its lofty perch. 

Here I've depicted a common seiner making its night set in the shadow of the mount. 

Piece will be shipped within 5 business days.