And as we approach the Old World start of the agricultural year, St Bridget’s day (Feb 1-2), there is sense of welcoming on the land. My rendition of a snow covered field greening in the east is made of stone texture, paint, rust, and Smoky Hill river silt. What I love about creating this piece was its conversation with Winter. It’s very dry on the prairie, but we recently had a day of ice and cold rain, and my first inclination was move the painting outdoors to bring the essence of Winter there. The North, where winter storms form, is a great teacher and I’ve found sheds light on the darkness within us. In this painting, the elements interacted with the growing rust and paint to create a deep, verdant green, symbolizing new growth emerging from winter’s hold on the land.