I was driving along the Turnagain Arm, as I often do when I need to step away from the world. It was a chilly December morning, well into negative temperatures. Sunrise in Alaska at this time of year is magical—around 10:30 a.m., the sun finally decides to say hello, and the colors that emerge feel pulled straight from a dream.

Though the sun hadn’t fully risen yet, I glanced toward the mountains and gasped. A soft glow of purples and pinks dressed the peak, while the surrounding sky remained a dusky blue, creating a striking contrast. I pulled over at my usual spot and took in the view for as long as I could. The sun moves quickly here, and those colors lingered for only a few fleeting minutes.

While working on this piece, I encountered a lot of challenges. I found myself taking deep breaths throughout some moments of doubt, constantly reminding myself that patience is key. I allowed myself to play and take chances.

When I finished this piece, I got emotional. I felt that this piece was something really special.

Creating this piece clarified what I want to be known for artistically. It feels like an evolution—one that’s happening even though Orchard Muse Artistry was born just months ago.