The magnificent birch tree grows in every region of Canada. Deep roots bring nutrients to branches and leaves, helping the tree to grow between 30 to 50 feet. In tree terms its life is short, but in its lifetime will prepare the forest floor for other trees to follow. It truly is a pioneer, making life better for future generations.  Â
White bark makes it one of the most recognizable trees in the bush and has significant cultural meaning for many people.
I was hiking in Murphy’s Point, a wonderful place to see this incredible tree when I remembered a gallery owner telling me my work was redundant and landscapes said nothing. I am sorry to disagree with him, but a landscape tells a story of a moment in the life of a forest, and I feel no better story can be told.
Waiting for the snow is 16 x 20 acrylic on canvas by Patricia Mosher and portrays the moment before the first snow. The birch trees know winter is upon them, but they are prepared for what is to come. To them, it’s a time of sleep until the hours of sunlight and warmth return, signalling them to leaf and grow once again, all part of a cycle of divine perfection.
This photograph was taken in Murphy’s Point Provincial Park last summer and is the same stand of trees waiting for the snow is based on. Over the past year, I have visited the park many times to hike the trails and paint.