Datz, Stephen C. - Ember and Drift

43" x 31.25" framed. "This past winter proved to be an abundant snow year for the desert country of the northern Colorado Plateau. It is not often one can drive out to Moab, Utah and find a foot of snow on the ground - which is exactly what I did the day after the storm. Clear skies, sunshine, and snow on red rock - it just doesn't get much better than that. This view is in an area of Arches National Park known as the Fiery Furnace, which is comprised of parallel "fins" of Entrada Sandstone that have eroded into a veritable maze. It is one of the most fascinating areas of the Park. Anyway, this is a view looking up a shallow draw to one such group of fins as the very last rays of the December sun bring out the rich red color of the stone and deep drifts of snow fade into blue and violet tones. Subtle but nevertheless dazzling, this moment was a perfect ending to a rare and exhilarating day. I think I saw enough inspiration on this one day to fuel a year's worth of painting." - Stephen C. Datz