whiterock conservancy

In the spring of 2026 two weeks were spent rekindling my creative fire at the whiterock conservancy. These works were completed as a result of my time there. Day-by-day field notes were posting on substack (paid subscription only) during the residency. Scroll down for a preview of the field notes (days 1 & 13) + my farewell guest book letter.

Project overview coming soon.

Field Notes Day 1

Whiterock conservancy day 1: with over 40 miles of trail to try and cover I got right out on the trails and did the Bobcat Redrock Spur loop. The hike was wonderful and I got back just before the sun started to set. I saw a red headed woodpecker that was really showing off. Oh and I found a nice big nettle patch and will be adding those to my dinner today.

These are some photos (from my phone only) because my hard drive crashed right after transferring them. At least it was just one day, but I do regret losing those woodpecker photos I shot with my big lens. Ah well. Maybe I’ll get lucky and see it again. What a stunner!

Since I’m here for two weeks, I’m doing a vegetarian elimination diet to see if I can sus out what’s making my body so angry. Here is my first dish. I’m starting out vegan and minus everything for the first 3 days then I’ll bring in things I’m fairly sure they are no problem (dairy).

Another downer was waking up in the middle of the night with a plantar fasciitis flare up. My big hike plans for today are going to be on pause while I stretch and ice it. So today is officially a painting day. That little horsetail shoot will be my subject. I’m hoping to manage a short out and back hike to the fishing ponds — maybe I’ll get lucky and catch my dinner.

Field Notes Day 13: Farewell

One of the things I’m not sure I’ve mentioned is how absolutely packed with art and books the River House is. I assumed it was all past artists in residency that had been donated, but no. This is Liz Garst’s private collection because this is her house up until about 10 years ago! She said the work in the house were pieces she purchased.

As my very final creative act in the house I wrote my guest book entry. Here it is.

Thanks for coming on this journey with me!