As Interstate 70 transitions from city road to mountain road, I pull into an unassuming park to capture a sunset vista and come upon a wide open field filled with our nation's mascot - the buffalo. There must be between 50 and 100 of these gentle giants, lined up in formation to graze on the grass and its hidden treasures. My hand immediately gravitates to my camera. I must capture their beautiful brown fur, glowing in the setting sunlight. I must capture their hearts, as it's clear their social organization and formation out there on the field provides the protection and care that one another need.
Twenty years ago I abandoned a dream in photography to do what I thought others wanted me to do. I did a good job. I worked hard and achieved. I even enjoyed it and am eternally gateful for what I learned and gained as a growing individual. Each year, though, I grew more aware of the artist in myself that I was starving. It took a mental health crisis to finally gather the courage I needed to answer back that small voice who, for so long, had been crying out to create. What I have found so far is that I am brave, I am an outdoors person, I am an artist, a photographer, a naturalist, and an advocate. I intend to use my photography for good, showcasing the ways that nature loves us back - a photographic practice of gratitude for the beauty that nature provides. I know I am on The Path.
