Granite Mountain, Agave in Prescott (Agave Perryi-century plant) – 30 x 40

Granite, as we all know, is plutonic igneous rock. Super hard. It’s what we make countertops out of if we want lasting durability. The word “granite” can also mean something or someone having the same qualities.
I recently hiked a Granite Mountain in Prescott, Arizona, with some friends. The area had suffered a fire a few years back, but the Granite Mountain Hotshots fought it back. Later, at another nearby fire, nineteen of the crew members lost their lives.

Loss is difficult. Our world has suffered tremendous loss in recent days. It’s hard to know how to move forward after such tragedies. But for the answer to that question, I remember Granite Mountain. It’s not going anywhere; its landscape is scared, but new growth is thriving. The unyielding firmness of the place remains, different, altered, but still unmovable. And such is the spirit God placed in people. As I surveyed the landscape, I marveled at the Agave Parryi riddling the landscape, sending up their vibrant stalks, as if to say, “We are still here, we are ok.”

I hope when you gaze at this painting to can see beauty from ashes.
Peace.