In the backcountry, a skier must always be focused on safety. For instance terrain matters. Skiing over a convex slope can have avalanche risks. Paying attention to the changing conditions such as the afternoon sun warming the facing slopes can also increase avalanche danger.
A trip in the backcountry begins with determining where to go. Researching snow and weather reports are part of the planning. Packing for a trip requires planning which is determined by whether you are planning a day trip or staying overnight. An overnight trip requires a larger pack which will mean more weight and slower travel. Steeper slopes can be more difficult to navigate. Essential equipment on every ski trip include: first aid kit, snow shovel, transceiver, probe, skins, water, food, cell phone, and extra warm clothing.
Attempting to paint plein air is impossible on this kind of a trip as keeping up with your party is essential for safety reasons. I take photos to add to my visual memory, taking care to stop at a safe spot. I consider my friends drive to move on and only stop to take the most important photos.
At home during the painting planning stage, I love putting my experience into my work and always start with a small study. I consider the major flow lines, and compositional shapes. Once satisfied I separate light from dark, and explore color themes. The next decision is which surface to paint on - as each will produce a different quality. Some of my choices are stretched linen, linen panel, copper, and oil primed wood panel. I take time with the small study and sometimes change the composition or color harmony while working.
The pictured 6x8' study on a linen panel, came from the end of a long day nearly reaching the safety of the Whistler ski resort. The light really caught my attention as it lit up Rainbow Mountain. I love it when the last light of the day illuminates snowy peaks against a dark sky. I have decided to work on another version of the study 12x16."
All the best,
Angela
