This Grand Teton painting marks the second time I’ve drawn inspiration from my good friend Travis Rhoads’ photography. The original reference photo captured a much wider scene, including the iconic barn that draws so many visitors’ lenses. While beautiful, including it felt like it would steal focus from the mountain itself—the true “Grand” presence.
So I cropped thoughtfully, applying the rule of thirds to place the snow-covered peak spot centered in the upper left third for a timeless, balanced composition. The mountain’s summit stands out with thick, crisp impasto paint straight from the tube—stark white silhouetted against a dynamic, wind-swept sky built from three blues: Cerulean lower down for mid-ground depth, Ultramarine in the middle, and deep Prussian Blue up top to amplify the drama and cold intensity.
The foreground anchors with a line of deep brown trees accented by subtle complimentary oranges that push them forward, creating real atmospheric depth. Broad, saturated strokes keep the whole piece vibrant and energetic—colors that scream “cold mountain majesty” while still feeling alive.
What makes this piece extra special in person is the scale and texture up close—those bold brushstrokes and thick paint really pop. And like many of my works, it’s finished in a custom floater frame I built myself using Cherry wood I personally harvested from my property here in Georgia. I mill the lumber by hand with my Alaskan Saw Mill, cut planks in my shop, and assemble frames that complement each painting’s mood perfectly. This sustainable, hands-on approach adds a layer of personal story and craftsmanship to every piece.