"Going up north" has taken on new meaning since returning from a month long expedition to the North Pole and Franz Josef Land. 

There were times while painting on the trembling bow of a northbound atomic icebreaker that I was the furthest north human on the planet.  Truly on top of the world! 

The quality of seeing is often more important than the object however the power of a place can awaken the senses and erase preconceptions.  This formidable yet fragile wilderness of endless ice and great white bears is so inspirational that I will have to go back.

The following paintings were painted on the drifting ice within the vicinity of the North Pole or on deck while moving through pack ice.  The islands of Franz Josef Land also provided much reference and wonder through its wild life and geological features.  Studio works from this expedition will be posted on this page soon. Thanks to the fellow passengers and the Quark Expedition team that helped make this adventure possible.