The Prince of Rockwood Park
An oil painting of a Majestic Whitetail Deer Young Buck
In the heart of a nearby city park is a forested area that is enjoyed by hikers and wildlife alike. This is a quiet place where you may often see whitetail deer, among other wildlife. I met this young buck while out on an adventure hoping to photograph some birds. The Prince of Rockwood Park.
When I pulled into the parking lot, I was quite surprised to see this young buck accompanied by his harem. I managed to get some ok photos from the car and figured I’d get photos of the trail once they left. The trail was nicely lit even though the light was diffused.
Once I thought the coast was clear, I ventured out of my car to get photos of the area where he was standing. Only he doubled back. I am unsure who was more surprised to see each other – him or me. I felt like he was looking into my soul. I took a few photos as I backed away and was delighted to see that I caught that soul gazing moment. Of course, I’d be painting him.
The scene was bathed in soft, diffused light that provided the inspiration for the background of my painting. This painting of the whitetail young buck feels like more than just a painting. For me it is a celebration of living with wildlife in an urban environment and of how wonderful these surprise encounters are. These moments provide us with a reminder of the importance of coexisting with the natural world.
Rockwood Park
Rockwood Park is a haven for many in the centre of Saint John. It is a place I almost lived in during my school years. Weather permitting, I would spend every day possible swimming in the lakes, sunning on the lawns and visiting the petting zoo. Now the Park is one of our favourite places to paint En Plein Air – and in every season! Many happy memories indeed. A nature park in the heart of Saint John, and a recreational jewel in the City’s crown. Located in the eastern area of the North End, Rockwood Park is one of Canada’s largest urban parks, at 890 hectares of forested hills, caves, and freshwater lakes. It was designed by Calvert Vaux, one of the designers of New York City’s Central Park. Rockwood Park is a City hub for outdoor activities and entertainment year round. Over 55 trails and footpaths will guide you through unspoiled wilds. The park features a golf course, camping sites, stables, wellness spa, and freshwater lakes for fishing, swimming, boating, and skating. A Stonehammer Geopark site, Rockwood’s billion years of history can be seen in unique rock formations, caves, and waterfalls. The park’s Interpretation Centre is the hub of information for all events taking place in the Park, trail maps, interpretive displays, and helpful staff. Make a day of it!
