Abert Squirrel in Ponderosa

10″ x 10″ Watercolor
Mounted on 1.5″ Cradled Birch Panel

Piece from the Pathways & Precipices ~ An Artist’s Return to Awe and Wonder Series inspired by experiences and transformations from Bandelier National Monument Artist Residency for month of November 2022.

I was forewarned that although there is diverse wildlife within Bandelier National Monument, I would likely not actually get to see many in person. So, I cherished the actual sightings I did have! I encountered this little guy several times on my evening walks, I would cross Frijoles Creek to the additional parking area and access to trails on the southern side of Frijoles Canyon. I followed him several times, fascinated by his long-tufted ears. I caught several photos of the squirrel and based this painting on my favorite with this satisfied pose up in a Ponderosa pine with its orange glowing bark!