Prints
Imagekind Gallery SomethingOld
Squaredance Tonight
These performers with the unlikely name of “The Grizzle Grazzle Tune Snugglers” were busking on the sidewalk of my hometown during a street festival. I loved the old timey/depression era vibe that they had.
These performers with the unlikely name of “The Grizzle Grazzle Tune Snugglers” were busking on the sidewalk of my hometown during a street festival. I loved the old timey/depression era vibe that they had.
Oxidized Angel
An ink and wax pastel painting of a lovely bit of sculpture I came across in my hometown. I loved the patina in conjunction with the feeling of pensiveness.
An ink and wax pastel painting of a lovely bit of sculpture I came across in my hometown. I loved the patina in conjunction with the feeling of pensiveness.
The original of this piece is AVAILABLE.
Contact me directly for details.
Recycling Rhapsody
As I was walking down the street in my hometown I came across this old piano that was lovingly planted. I thought the juxtaposition of textures and the concept itself utterly charming.
As I was walking down the street in my hometown I came across this old piano that was lovingly planted. I thought the juxtaposition of textures and the concept itself utterly charming.
To further the contrast and to support the antique-y look I hand tinted the plants but left the texture of the weather beaten wood in black and white.
Reclamation
This particular piece has a touch of irony…the plants are growing out of derelict steam logging equipment from the Depression Era.
This particular piece has a touch of irony…the plants are growing out of derelict steam logging equipment from the Depression Era.
I though the juxtaposition of texture and color was fascinating as well.
The Captain’s Boots
A study in light and texture. I leave it to the viewer to extrapolate on the suggested story
A study in light and texture. I leave it to the viewer to extrapolate on the suggested story
Chandelier
A study in reflected light and color relationships. The aim was to deliver a detailed image using very loose technique after the Ashcan School…sort of.
A study in reflected light and color relationships. The aim was to deliver a detailed image using very loose technique after the Ashcan School…sort of.
Turrets
I caught this shot of these wonderful copper roofed turrets right on the leading edge of an early spring storm. Made for some wonderful textural and light plays
I caught this shot of these wonderful copper roofed turrets right on the leading edge of an early spring storm. Made for some wonderful textural and light plays
Column with Mustache
An upshot of some of the marvelous old architecture in my Hometown. Each column of this fine old structure has a different gargoyle-ish face on it. Each are hand carved, not cast.
An upshot of some of the marvelous old architecture in my Hometown. Each column of this fine old structure has a different gargoyle-ish face on it. Each are hand carved, not cast.
Focus
As I was wandering about in my hometown, I ran across this marvelous old camera in an antique shop. I couldn’t resist the irony of taking the shot with a digital…
As I was wandering about in my hometown, I ran across this marvelous old camera in an antique shop. I couldn’t resist the irony of taking the shot with a digital…
Hand Shears
Antique fleece shears hanging in from a barn rafter. I found the juxtaposition of shapes interesting
Antique fleece shears hanging in from a barn rafter. I found the juxtaposition of shapes interesting
Spokes and Lichen
Sometimes it all comes together…shape, light, texture,color and rhythm .
This piece also highlights my love of vintage and antique things as well as a propensity for focusing in a small elements within a larger picture.
Sometimes it all comes together…shape, light, texture,color and rhythm .
This piece also highlights my love of vintage and antique things as well as a propensity for focusing in a small elements within a larger picture.
Stone Faun
Yes, Yes I know that the rules say that I’m not supposed to put the focus of a composition smack in the middle. The converging triangles of texture and light and the square composition make this work. Plus the Faun was just downright nifty to look at.
Yes, Yes I know that the rules say that I’m not supposed to put the focus of a composition smack in the middle. The converging triangles of texture and light and the square composition make this work. Plus the Faun was just downright nifty to look at.
Cougar Gargoyle
I love facade work on old buildings…especially when the pieces are hand carved and not cast This is a very unusual approach to a gargoyle type carving, representing a cougar.
I love facade work on old buildings…especially when the pieces are hand carved and not cast This is a very unusual approach to a gargoyle type carving, representing a cougar.
The pinkish/gold light of the early spring day on which I took the shot really highlighted the chisel marks and brought out color in a big way. I’ve not seen it that way since…
Still Life with Cigar Boxes
A shot in our local, old school diner/tobacco seller. The grain in the focus is intentional to further the old timey feel.
A shot in our local, old school diner/tobacco seller. The grain in the focus is intentional to further the old timey feel.
Imagekind Gallery StreetLevel
Street Symphony, Second Movement
I love street musicians. I loved the focus on the music that this guy had as well as the light that day….
I love street musicians. I loved the focus on the music that this guy had as well as the light that day….
Outside the Cafe
This shot was taken outside of a cafe that is an institution in my Hometown. It’s been in business since the 30′s.
This shot was taken outside of a cafe that is an institution in my Hometown. It’s been in business since the 30′s.
I think this shot encompasses both a feeling of invitation and one of abandonment.
Promise
I found these brave crocus shoots coming up less than a foot from a major arterial street on a very cold February morning. They were the first promise of the lush season to come.
I found these brave crocus shoots coming up less than a foot from a major arterial street on a very cold February morning. They were the first promise of the lush season to come.
Oceana Dances in the Streets
This lovely masked dancer was part of a local almost Mardi Gras type festival. I love street performances of all sorts and her handmade costume moved in a truly mesmerizing fashion
This lovely masked dancer was part of a local almost Mardi Gras type festival. I love street performances of all sorts and her handmade costume moved in a truly mesmerizing fashion
Offering
I found this bit wired carefully to the branch of a budding tree in front of one of my favorite Seattle coffee houses one early spring day.
The Pacific Northwest is and has always been a bastion of individuality.
I found this bit wired carefully to the branch of a budding tree in front of one of my favorite Seattle coffee houses one early spring day.
The Pacific Northwest is and has always been a bastion of individuality.
The World through a Bubble
I caught this moment of whimsy during a street performance by a young contact juggler. I found his look of wonder at that moment appealing.
I caught this moment of whimsy during a street performance by a young contact juggler. I found his look of wonder at that moment appealing.
Chihuahua in a Snowstorm
It was snowing the day I came across this lovingly bundled but still cold chihuahua. This teeny guy was tucked under the arm of his owner and didn’t look overly convinced that he should be out at all…
It was snowing the day I came across this lovingly bundled but still cold chihuahua. This teeny guy was tucked under the arm of his owner and didn’t look overly convinced that he should be out at all…
Home is where the Dog is
I came across this poignant moment on the streets of my hometown. No matter how rough things got for this wonderful pups owner, he was well cared for and loved.
I came across this poignant moment on the streets of my hometown. No matter how rough things got for this wonderful pups owner, he was well cared for and loved.
Ghosts are Invisible to the Unaware
I’m often amazed as to how the homeless are ignored like a shadow of a human. This is especially so in the medium sized, Pacific Northwest town in which I grew up. The feeling is one of’ maybe if we ignore them they’ll go away”. Needless to say,with that viewpoint the problem has worsened over the years…..I’ve added grain because it seemed to mirror a social lack of focus.
I’m often amazed as to how the homeless are ignored like a shadow of a human. This is especially so in the medium sized, Pacific Northwest town in which I grew up. The feeling is one of’ maybe if we ignore them they’ll go away”. Needless to say,with that viewpoint the problem has worsened over the years…..I’ve added grain because it seemed to mirror a social lack of focus.
A Good Citizen Follows Directions
I noticed this as I was wandering around my town one gray day. The repetition of the ‘splats’ cracked me up.
I noticed this as I was wandering around my town one gray day. The repetition of the ‘splats’ cracked me up.
Imagekind Gallery ObjectsandStillLife
Cafe Composition with Hop vines
.. This sunlit October day at one of my favorite cafes in Western Washington was just too dynamic to pass up as subject matter. I am continually amazed at how much beauty is around a person every day when one takes the time to slow down and look. This piece is a bit more impressionistic than I normally do, but effective in that oeuvre, I think.
.. This sunlit October day at one of my favorite cafes in Western Washington was just too dynamic to pass up as subject matter. I am continually amazed at how much beauty is around a person every day when one takes the time to slow down and look. This piece is a bit more impressionistic than I normally do, but effective in that oeuvre, I think.
Hotei and Bamboo
Hotei is one of the Shichi Fukujin, the seven Japanese Shinto-gods of luck. He is the god of happiness, laughter and the wisdom of contentment, and is the patron of the weak and children, fortunetellers and bartenders. His big belly is a symbol of happiness, luck and generosity.
In Chinese Buddhism he is known as Budai, the Loving or Friendly One. His pleasing, human features, made him a most popular Buddhist deity. It was not until the sixteenth century that he was canonised as the sixteenth and last Chinese bodhisattva.
According to Chinese legend he carried a sack of candy to give to children. He is sometimes worshipped as a god of good luck and prosperity. He is always represented as very stout, with the breast and upper abdomen exposed to view. His face has a widely grinning or laughing expression, and he is also known as the Laughing Buddha. Because of his constant good nature, he has become the symbol of philosophical contentment.
The light and textural play of this moment gave me great pleasure and made me giggle a bit….how fitting.
Hotei is one of the Shichi Fukujin, the seven Japanese Shinto-gods of luck. He is the god of happiness, laughter and the wisdom of contentment, and is the patron of the weak and children, fortunetellers and bartenders. His big belly is a symbol of happiness, luck and generosity.
In Chinese Buddhism he is known as Budai, the Loving or Friendly One. His pleasing, human features, made him a most popular Buddhist deity. It was not until the sixteenth century that he was canonised as the sixteenth and last Chinese bodhisattva.
According to Chinese legend he carried a sack of candy to give to children. He is sometimes worshipped as a god of good luck and prosperity. He is always represented as very stout, with the breast and upper abdomen exposed to view. His face has a widely grinning or laughing expression, and he is also known as the Laughing Buddha. Because of his constant good nature, he has become the symbol of philosophical contentment.
The light and textural play of this moment gave me great pleasure and made me giggle a bit….how fitting.
Beachside Still Life
I spend a lot of time at the beach in all seasons. The light in early spring is always interesting.
I spend a lot of time at the beach in all seasons. The light in early spring is always interesting.
Shitakes at the Farmers Market
I lovelovelove the Farmers Market in my Hometown. The variety of colors, textures and smells boggle the imagination. Here in the Pacific Northwest we’re blessed with an abundance of fresh locally grown items.
I lovelovelove the Farmers Market in my Hometown. The variety of colors, textures and smells boggle the imagination. Here in the Pacific Northwest we’re blessed with an abundance of fresh locally grown items.
I thought these fresh shitakes were an interesting contrast of boldness and delicacy.
Watcher by the Door
I couldn’t make this one up if I tried…the eyes are NOT manipulated, I just desaturated all the other color. The baby doll eyes in this wonderfully strange terracotta sculpture are actually set looking straight forward. This shot illustrates the propensity for them to follow you around the room. Again…NOT manipulated.
I couldn’t make this one up if I tried…the eyes are NOT manipulated, I just desaturated all the other color. The baby doll eyes in this wonderfully strange terracotta sculpture are actually set looking straight forward. This shot illustrates the propensity for them to follow you around the room. Again…NOT manipulated.
Plums at the Farmers Market
I’m always amazed at the variety and beauty of our Pacific Northwest Produce, even late in the season. How could one resist shooting such color and lush shapes?
From the Hometown Series
I’m always amazed at the variety and beauty of our Pacific Northwest Produce, even late in the season. How could one resist shooting such color and lush shapes?
From the Hometown Series
Iron 1
I spend 6 days a week in the gym, around the free weights. I was looking the other day at those weights and realized many pieces of gym equipment share elements of industrial sculpture. This is the first of a series exploring that concept.
I spend 6 days a week in the gym, around the free weights. I was looking the other day at those weights and realized many pieces of gym equipment share elements of industrial sculpture. This is the first of a series exploring that concept.
Iron 2
spend 6 days a week in the gym, around the free weights. I was looking the other day at those weights and realized many pieces of gym equipment share elements of industrial sculpture. This is the second of a series exploring that concept.
spend 6 days a week in the gym, around the free weights. I was looking the other day at those weights and realized many pieces of gym equipment share elements of industrial sculpture. This is the second of a series exploring that concept.
Chilies at the Farmers Market
How could I resist this playful display of color and rhythm at my Local Farmers Market? The foodie in me was enchanted.
From the Hometown Series
How could I resist this playful display of color and rhythm at my Local Farmers Market? The foodie in me was enchanted.
From the Hometown Series
Iron 3
I spend 6 days a week in the gym, around the free weights. I was looking the other day at those weights and realized many pieces of gym equipment share elements of industrial sculpture. This is the third of a series exploring that concept.
I spend 6 days a week in the gym, around the free weights. I was looking the other day at those weights and realized many pieces of gym equipment share elements of industrial sculpture. This is the third of a series exploring that concept.
Imagekind Gallery PaintandPencil
Initiation
By S. McElwee 2005 Mixed Media on Paper 22X28
By S. McElwee 2005 Mixed Media on Paper 22X28
A powerful image of personal transformation
The Original of this piece is AVAILABLE.
Fang Icon
By S. McElwee
Original Graphite on Bristol 1996
An incredibly detailed and dynamic study of an African icon.
By S. McElwee
Original Graphite on Bristol 1996
An incredibly detailed and dynamic study of an African icon.
Bodhisattva
by S. McElwee 200 Graphite and Wax Pastel on Bristol
by S. McElwee 200 Graphite and Wax Pastel on Bristol
One of my very favorites from the archives. Evocative.
Invocation
By S. McElwee Mixed Media on Paper 22X28 2005
By S. McElwee Mixed Media on Paper 22X28 2005
An image of feminine power with a shamanic flavor.
The heat ripples projected onto the dancer’s skin makes this an unusual and conversation provoking piece
Tibet
By S. McElwee Graphite on Paper 2000 10X12
By S. McElwee Graphite on Paper 2000 10X12
An intimate and gestural drawing of a Tibetan woman in traditional garb
The Painted Drum
by S. McElwee 2005 Original 16X20 Mixed media on Paper
by S. McElwee 2005 Original 16X20 Mixed media on Paper
The first in the Trancedance series. The original piece is AVAILABLE.
Aurora
By S. McElwee 2008 Ink and Wax pastel on Paper
original dimensions: 16×22
By S. McElwee 2008 Ink and Wax pastel on Paper
original dimensions: 16×22
An interactive and transformative moment integrating fire, earth and sky.
The original of this piece is available. Contact me for further details 
Guardian
by S. McElwee 1996
A dynamic wax pastel original. It features Bakira, one of the celestial generals of Japanese Buddhism, who is said to guard against disease and defend the faith.
by S. McElwee 1996
A dynamic wax pastel original. It features Bakira, one of the celestial generals of Japanese Buddhism, who is said to guard against disease and defend the faith.
Imagekind Gallery NorthernPacific
Moon Jellies
I think Jellyfish are some of the most mysteriously beautiful creatures in the world. Moon Jellies are positively ethereal.
I think Jellyfish are some of the most mysteriously beautiful creatures in the world. Moon Jellies are positively ethereal.
Pacific Northwest Sunset
An amazing evening in the Great Northwest. This shot has taken from my back porch as I was observing the leading edge of a thunderstorm. The colors haven’t been adjusted at all, the image merely cropped for composition.
An amazing evening in the Great Northwest. This shot has taken from my back porch as I was observing the leading edge of a thunderstorm. The colors haven’t been adjusted at all, the image merely cropped for composition.
Flotsam and Jetsom 3
Amazing light that day. This has an almost still life quality to it but still retains an echo of the dynamic action of Pacific waves.
Taken on the Washington coast.
Amazing light that day. This has an almost still life quality to it but still retains an echo of the dynamic action of Pacific waves.
Taken on the Washington coast.
After the Storm
How often does a full spectrum rainbow hang out long enough to get the shot? I happened on this purely by chance after I stepped out onto my front porch after a particularly intense spring storm. I love the Northwest’s moody skies.
How often does a full spectrum rainbow hang out long enough to get the shot? I happened on this purely by chance after I stepped out onto my front porch after a particularly intense spring storm. I love the Northwest’s moody skies.
Portrait of a Harbor Seal
These Seals are all over the Northern Pacific Coast. I have a special fondness for them….must be something in those eyes
These Seals are all over the Northern Pacific Coast. I have a special fondness for them….must be something in those eyes
Kelp 2
I love the sinuous movement of growing kelp and that it’s the backbone of the rich body of sea life in the cold waters of the Pacific Northwest and Southern Alaska.
I love the sinuous movement of growing kelp and that it’s the backbone of the rich body of sea life in the cold waters of the Pacific Northwest and Southern Alaska.
Nesting Murres
Millions of Seabirds nest on the rugged Alaska coastlines. Murres are just one of the many species.
Millions of Seabirds nest on the rugged Alaska coastlines. Murres are just one of the many species.
Low Tide at the Sea Wall
This highly detailed water media piece is a portrait of one of the more shy shore birds to inhabit Resurrection Bay, the Oyster Catcher.
I spotted this guy at the tide wall in Seward, Alaska in company of an array of brightly colored anemones in the tide pools.
This highly detailed water media piece is a portrait of one of the more shy shore birds to inhabit Resurrection Bay, the Oyster Catcher.
I spotted this guy at the tide wall in Seward, Alaska in company of an array of brightly colored anemones in the tide pools.
Flotsom and Jetsam 5
I love the shapes that are created by the water and sand at the tideline. This is a hand tinted study in shapes, texture and rhythm.
I love the shapes that are created by the water and sand at the tideline. This is a hand tinted study in shapes, texture and rhythm.
Kelp
by S. McElwee 2005
A detailed study of a perfect composition that I discovered on the beach near Port Townsend , Wa.
by S. McElwee 2005
A detailed study of a perfect composition that I discovered on the beach near Port Townsend , Wa.
Wolf Eel
The cold waters of the Pacific Northwest coast supports a wealth of sea life. This guy lives under a dock.
The cold waters of the Pacific Northwest coast supports a wealth of sea life. This guy lives under a dock.
Flotsam and Jetsam 1
I spend as much time as I can at the beach. Seems strong compositions can be found everywhere in the simplest of things.
I spend as much time as I can at the beach. Seems strong compositions can be found everywhere in the simplest of things.
Flotsam & Jetsom 2
Simple shot,,,awesome light that day. I liked the comet tail effect that the sunlight on the sand created
Simple shot,,,awesome light that day. I liked the comet tail effect that the sunlight on the sand created
Spot Shrimp
There are many sorts of shrimp in the cold waters of Resurrection Bay located in South Central Alaska. This Spot Shrimp was crawling on some line under a dock.
There are many sorts of shrimp in the cold waters of Resurrection Bay located in South Central Alaska. This Spot Shrimp was crawling on some line under a dock.
Hazy Day at Clam Gulch
Cook Inlet is often overcast…but it makes for amazing and subtle variations of color.
Cook Inlet is often overcast…but it makes for amazing and subtle variations of color.
Northern Kittiwake
One of the Millions of seabirds that nest around the South Central Alaskan coastline. Pretty little things…
One of the Millions of seabirds that nest around the South Central Alaskan coastline. Pretty little things…
Imagekind Gallery PointsNorth
Elder
Mixed Media on Paper 2007……An intimate and intense portrait of a Tlingit man in traditional costume.
Mixed Media on Paper 2007……An intimate and intense portrait of a Tlingit man in traditional costume.
Southface of the Alaska Range
Taken on the South face Approach to Mt McKinley.
McKinley is so vast that the beauty of the surrounding peaks is often overlooked. The tree line is relatively low making unobstructed views of the rugged peaks possible.
This was shot about an hour north of the town of Talkeetna.
Taken on the South face Approach to Mt McKinley.
McKinley is so vast that the beauty of the surrounding peaks is often overlooked. The tree line is relatively low making unobstructed views of the rugged peaks possible.
This was shot about an hour north of the town of Talkeetna.
Tlingit Dancer
A dramatic painting of a Tlingit dancer of South Eastern Alaska in motion. I was fortunate enough to have been granted permission to take reference photos by the Tlingit/Haida Dancers of Anchorage. Many thanks!
A dramatic painting of a Tlingit dancer of South Eastern Alaska in motion. I was fortunate enough to have been granted permission to take reference photos by the Tlingit/Haida Dancers of Anchorage. Many thanks!
Denali Park in Autmn
While I usually tend to see the world in a “macro sense” this particular vista blew me away. Taken in the lesser known Denali STATE park (vs. the famous Federal Preserve) in September just before first snow. I’m beginning to understand Ansel Adams’ fascination with Yosemite. This spot wouldn’t have framed better if I had planned it myself.
While I usually tend to see the world in a “macro sense” this particular vista blew me away. Taken in the lesser known Denali STATE park (vs. the famous Federal Preserve) in September just before first snow. I’m beginning to understand Ansel Adams’ fascination with Yosemite. This spot wouldn’t have framed better if I had planned it myself.
Tradition
by S. McElwee
I was fortunate to live in a place where Native Culture is alive and well. This was inspired by a T’ligit Dance Troupe in Anchorage
by S. McElwee
I was fortunate to live in a place where Native Culture is alive and well. This was inspired by a T’ligit Dance Troupe in Anchorage
Yukon Wakeup Call
On a trip through Northern Canada I had an encounter with this small bird with a big mouth that decided that my wakeup call should be at 4 AM. It did, however, wake me up to a gorgeous morning with amazing light which I rendered in this mixed media piece.
On a trip through Northern Canada I had an encounter with this small bird with a big mouth that decided that my wakeup call should be at 4 AM. It did, however, wake me up to a gorgeous morning with amazing light which I rendered in this mixed media piece.
Catkins in May
A mixed media piece (giclee, inkwash and wax pastel) of some birch catkins that I saw just outside of Tok, Ak. mid- May.
A mixed media piece (giclee, inkwash and wax pastel) of some birch catkins that I saw just outside of Tok, Ak. mid- May.
Sleeping Porcupine
I caught this shot as I was wandering around at a rest stop just outside of Portage, Ak. This porcupine was curled up asleep at the mouth of a culvert. He woke ever so briefly when he heard the sound of the camera shutter, grunted a bit and then went right on back to snoozing.
I caught this shot as I was wandering around at a rest stop just outside of Portage, Ak. This porcupine was curled up asleep at the mouth of a culvert. He woke ever so briefly when he heard the sound of the camera shutter, grunted a bit and then went right on back to snoozing.
I love the semi-abstract quality of this shot.
Bathing Bear
I happened to catch a glimpse of this young Alaskan Brown Bear playing in a river this last summer. He looked like he was having so much fun that I couldn’t resist painting him.
I happened to catch a glimpse of this young Alaskan Brown Bear playing in a river this last summer. He looked like he was having so much fun that I couldn’t resist painting him.
Birch
The Birch trees of the Boreal forests are a never ending source of interesting light and textural play.
The Birch trees of the Boreal forests are a never ending source of interesting light and textural play.
Snow in Spring
An Arctic Fox in a rare moment of stillness. This was taken only a few weeks before blowing that magnificent winter coat which is, btw, as thick and soft as it appears.
I really love these little guys as they are an amazing mix of “tough as nails” and infinitely playful.
An Arctic Fox in a rare moment of stillness. This was taken only a few weeks before blowing that magnificent winter coat which is, btw, as thick and soft as it appears.
I really love these little guys as they are an amazing mix of “tough as nails” and infinitely playful.
Bull Moose Ballet
I happened across these 3 young bull moose in South Central Alaska.
It was early in the rutting season, but these youngsters were mostly just testing each other
I happened across these 3 young bull moose in South Central Alaska.
It was early in the rutting season, but these youngsters were mostly just testing each other
Spring Anemones
I found these beauties nestled in conifer duff beside a parking lot just north of the Canadian/Alaska border in late May.
I thought they had an exotic look to them that was almost out of place in the far North.
I found these beauties nestled in conifer duff beside a parking lot just north of the Canadian/Alaska border in late May.
I thought they had an exotic look to them that was almost out of place in the far North.
Mist on Turnagin Arm
The light is always doing something wonderful along this particular stretch of the Seward Highway, just outside of Anchorage. In early spring the twilight seems to last forever and takes on a quality that very few but the most adventurous early season travelers and the locals get to witness. This mixed media piece is my take on the Vernal Equinox at low tide along Turnagin Arm. You guess what time of day it is
The light is always doing something wonderful along this particular stretch of the Seward Highway, just outside of Anchorage. In early spring the twilight seems to last forever and takes on a quality that very few but the most adventurous early season travelers and the locals get to witness. This mixed media piece is my take on the Vernal Equinox at low tide along Turnagin Arm. You guess what time of day it is
Spring Catkins
This color study features loose and lively brushwork as well dynamic color relationships.
A moment caught in the far North spring.
This color study features loose and lively brushwork as well dynamic color relationships.
A moment caught in the far North spring.
May 1st ten thirty pm
The sky in Alaska does amazing things all of the time. A promise of the midnite sun to come.
The sky in Alaska does amazing things all of the time. A promise of the midnite sun to come.
Forest Flowers
This hyper realistic piece was inspired by a day in an Alaskan forest on the edge of Cook Inlet. Many transparent washes and drybrush work gives this a real feeling of depth
and subtlety even with dynamic color relationships
This hyper realistic piece was inspired by a day in an Alaskan forest on the edge of Cook Inlet. Many transparent washes and drybrush work gives this a real feeling of depth
and subtlety even with dynamic color relationships
Imagekind Gallery TheNaturalWorld
Omega
Taken in a Western Washington garden in October and Hand tinted.
The final dogwood leaf in the garden.
Taken in a Western Washington garden in October and Hand tinted.
The final dogwood leaf in the garden.
Pine
This is the second in my “Public Gardens” series. Some days the light is just right. Taken at Point Defiance, Western Washington, mid September
This is the second in my “Public Gardens” series. Some days the light is just right. Taken at Point Defiance, Western Washington, mid September
Frost 3
This shot was a macro moment in my mothers garden this winter.
I really like the textural things that happen when it frosts up.
This shot was a macro moment in my mothers garden this winter.
I really like the textural things that happen when it frosts up.
Burrowing Owl
I’ve been fortunate enough lately to get some really good owl shots…this little guy was only 10 inches high or so. He seemed pretty curious about the lens.
I’ve been fortunate enough lately to get some really good owl shots…this little guy was only 10 inches high or so. He seemed pretty curious about the lens.
After the Rain
I live in the Pacific Northwest and the gardens here bloom well into the autumn. I found this late season semi-blossom an interesting texture and color. After it rains it seems like color gets more intense….
I live in the Pacific Northwest and the gardens here bloom well into the autumn. I found this late season semi-blossom an interesting texture and color. After it rains it seems like color gets more intense….
Butterfly by the Biketrail
I came across my first painted wing creature slowly walking across the bike trail in front of my house. I think he was searching for a sunbeam. I love all the fuzzy texture.
I came across my first painted wing creature slowly walking across the bike trail in front of my house. I think he was searching for a sunbeam. I love all the fuzzy texture.
Barn Owl
There is a special beauty to barn owls. I also love that they are relatively unafraid of people, making shots like this one possible.
There is a special beauty to barn owls. I also love that they are relatively unafraid of people, making shots like this one possible.
Silk Tree Blossom
I thought that the almost alien quality of this bloom was fascinating. I also was really struck by how the threadlike texture of the bloom seemed to trap and emanate light…
I thought that the almost alien quality of this bloom was fascinating. I also was really struck by how the threadlike texture of the bloom seemed to trap and emanate light…
Begonias
Here in the Northwest tuberous begonias tend to bloom late into the season. This shot was taken late in the autumn, which didn’t seem to phase them at all. I love the juxtaposition of all the different textures and colors inherent to begonias!
Here in the Northwest tuberous begonias tend to bloom late into the season. This shot was taken late in the autumn, which didn’t seem to phase them at all. I love the juxtaposition of all the different textures and colors inherent to begonias!
Spirea
Taken on a beautiful fall day in my personal garden. I love Spirea with their delicate looking elfin flowers and innate toughness as a species.
Taken on a beautiful fall day in my personal garden. I love Spirea with their delicate looking elfin flowers and innate toughness as a species.
vining
I tend not to go about looking for exotic things to shoot. Rather, I look more closely at things that I see every day. This Star Jasmine vine is growing on my back deck…and if left unattended will try and take over the universe.
I tend not to go about looking for exotic things to shoot. Rather, I look more closely at things that I see every day. This Star Jasmine vine is growing on my back deck…and if left unattended will try and take over the universe.
The light that day was gorgeous as was the negative space created by this plants vining habits.
Portrait of a Eurasian Eagle Owl
This is (arguably) the largest species of owl in the world. He was just too handsome not to snap a shot or two
This is (arguably) the largest species of owl in the world. He was just too handsome not to snap a shot or two
Frost 2
Another Macro taken in a Pacific Northwest garden this winter.
Another Macro taken in a Pacific Northwest garden this winter.
The color and textural qualities of these plants was utterly beautiful to me.
Mallow Blossom
I was wandering around in a small demo garden that’s attached to the Farmers Market in my hometown and came across this dramatic autumn bloom. Funny that some folks consider them weeds….
I was wandering around in a small demo garden that’s attached to the Farmers Market in my hometown and came across this dramatic autumn bloom. Funny that some folks consider them weeds….
Viburnum Seeds
A macro view from my garden. Gorgeous light and color. I am always astounded by the beauty that abounds right under my nose.
A macro view from my garden. Gorgeous light and color. I am always astounded by the beauty that abounds right under my nose.
Lily Stamens
Taken in my garden. I love the dramatic look of lilies of all sorts and grow many varieties.
Taken in my garden. I love the dramatic look of lilies of all sorts and grow many varieties.
Imagekind Gallery HiddenSupportObviousPressure
Hidden Spport 6-Ghost Bear
An abstraction of the skull of a massive Short Faced Bear from the Beringian Period.
An abstraction of the skull of a massive Short Faced Bear from the Beringian Period.
Ice 3
Taken at the International Ice Carving Competition in Fairbanks, Alaska, held every February.
As I wandered around the Icepark created for the event, I was absolutely entranced with the way the light shone through and refracted within the ice…both carved and in raw blocks.
Taken at the International Ice Carving Competition in Fairbanks, Alaska, held every February.
As I wandered around the Icepark created for the event, I was absolutely entranced with the way the light shone through and refracted within the ice…both carved and in raw blocks.
Hidden Support 2- Sea Lion Skull
Second in the Hidden Support Series, which removes the object from context and views it purely compositionally.
Second in the Hidden Support Series, which removes the object from context and views it purely compositionally.
Ice 1
Taken at the International Ice Carving Competition in Fairbanks, Alaska, held every February.
As I wandered around the Icepark created for the event, I was absolutely entranced with the way the light shone through and refracted within the ice…both carved and in raw blocks.
Taken at the International Ice Carving Competition in Fairbanks, Alaska, held every February.
As I wandered around the Icepark created for the event, I was absolutely entranced with the way the light shone through and refracted within the ice…both carved and in raw blocks.
Ice 4
Taken at the International Ice Carving Competition in Fairbanks, Alaska, held every February.
As I wandered around the Icepark created for the event, I was absolutely entranced with the way the light shone through and refracted within the ice…both carved and in raw blocks.
Taken at the International Ice Carving Competition in Fairbanks, Alaska, held every February.
As I wandered around the Icepark created for the event, I was absolutely entranced with the way the light shone through and refracted within the ice…both carved and in raw blocks.
Hidden Support 1- Mammoth Spine
First in a series. A purely compositional view of a section of Woolly Mammoth spine and scapula.
First in a series. A purely compositional view of a section of Woolly Mammoth spine and scapula.
Taken at the Beringian Museum in Whitehorse, YT.
Ice 2
Taken at the International Ice Carving Competition in Fairbanks, Alaska, held every February.
As I wandered around the Icepark created for the event, I was absolutely entranced with the way the light shone through and refracted within the ice…both carved and in raw blocks.
Taken at the International Ice Carving Competition in Fairbanks, Alaska, held every February.
As I wandered around the Icepark created for the event, I was absolutely entranced with the way the light shone through and refracted within the ice…both carved and in raw blocks.
Hidden Support 4-Fossil Spine
Another in the Hidden Support series. These are Woolly Mammoth vertebrae framed purely compositionally verging on the abstract. I gotta say I love the negative space and color contrasts in this one.
Another in the Hidden Support series. These are Woolly Mammoth vertebrae framed purely compositionally verging on the abstract. I gotta say I love the negative space and color contrasts in this one.
Ice 6
Taken at the International Ice Carving Competition in Fairbanks, Alaska, held every February.
As I wandered around the Icepark created for the event, I was absolutely entranced with the way the light shone through and refracted within the ice…both carved and in raw blocks.
Taken at the International Ice Carving Competition in Fairbanks, Alaska, held every February.
As I wandered around the Icepark created for the event, I was absolutely entranced with the way the light shone through and refracted within the ice…both carved and in raw blocks.
Ice 7
Taken at the International Ice Carving Competition in Fairbanks, Alaska, held every February.
As I wandered around the Icepark created for the event, I was absolutely entranced with the way the light shone through and refracted within the ice…both carved and in raw blocks.
Taken at the International Ice Carving Competition in Fairbanks, Alaska, held every February.
As I wandered around the Icepark created for the event, I was absolutely entranced with the way the light shone through and refracted within the ice…both carved and in raw blocks.
Hidden Support 7 : Caribou Skulls
The light and shadow play on this collection of caribou skulls took my breath away. I’ve added grain to soften some of the angularity and to add a certain feel of antiquity to the composition.
An homage to the animals that are the backbone of Interior Alaskan subsistence.
The light and shadow play on this collection of caribou skulls took my breath away. I’ve added grain to soften some of the angularity and to add a certain feel of antiquity to the composition.
An homage to the animals that are the backbone of Interior Alaskan subsistence.
Hidden Support 3- Wolf Skull
The 3rd in the Hidden Support series, removing the object from context and looking at it purely as a series of shapes. Taken with a Canon Powershot.
The 3rd in the Hidden Support series, removing the object from context and looking at it purely as a series of shapes. Taken with a Canon Powershot.
Frost 4
This array of ice crystals was growing on my bedroom window in Fairbanks, Ak. this last winter. I thought the interplay of the blue light reflecting from outside and the warm light from my bed side lamp was pretty dynamic. The effect is almost abstract.
This array of ice crystals was growing on my bedroom window in Fairbanks, Ak. this last winter. I thought the interplay of the blue light reflecting from outside and the warm light from my bed side lamp was pretty dynamic. The effect is almost abstract.
Imagekind Gallery Illustration
Silver Birch
by S. McElwee 2005
by S. McElwee 2005
This was the first in a series of illustrations based on the Trees of the Celtic Alphabet.
Thors Hammer
by S. McElwee 2004
by S. McElwee 2004
I’m occasionally asked to design iconography. This is one of my favorites!
Waking Naga
by S. McElwee
Mixed media 1999
by S. McElwee
Mixed media 1999
I’ve always loved the movement of this piece, originally designed for a festival poster.
Imagekind Gallery DiscontinuedPrints
Column with Moss
An upshot of a hand carved gargoyle-ish face on the Old Capitol building in Downtown Olympia,Wa.
An upshot of a hand carved gargoyle-ish face on the Old Capitol building in Downtown Olympia,Wa.
I loved the way the moss and lichen build up underscored the chisel work.
I’d Share, but….
I was out refilling my bird feeders and came across this moment. It looks as if all the seed had been eaten before the birds could. There are even incriminating crumbs on the sun’s lips. I thought it was pretty funny. All that and the light was good that day too, making for awesome texture play.
I was out refilling my bird feeders and came across this moment. It looks as if all the seed had been eaten before the birds could. There are even incriminating crumbs on the sun’s lips. I thought it was pretty funny. All that and the light was good that day too, making for awesome texture play.
Hidden Support 5-Upper Jaw of a Moose
As is with most of the pieces in the Hidden support series, I have pulled the object out of context, focusing purely on composition. I’ve added grain to play in opposition to the contemporary composition.
As is with most of the pieces in the Hidden support series, I have pulled the object out of context, focusing purely on composition. I’ve added grain to play in opposition to the contemporary composition.
Dahlia
My mother has an amazing garden. This sherbet toned dahlia is one of the stars in it. A study in texture as well as color shot at an almost abstract level.
My mother has an amazing garden. This sherbet toned dahlia is one of the stars in it. A study in texture as well as color shot at an almost abstract level.
Hidden Support 8: Mammoth Teeth
Another in the Hidden Support series. These is a fossilized Woolly Mammoth skull framed purely compositionally verging on the abstract. A strong study in texture and linear juxtaposition
Another in the Hidden Support series. These is a fossilized Woolly Mammoth skull framed purely compositionally verging on the abstract. A strong study in texture and linear juxtaposition
Ice 5
Taken at the International Ice Carving Competition in Fairbanks, Alaska, held every February.
As I wandered around the Icepark created for the event, I was absolutely entranced with the way the light shone through and refracted within the ice…both carved and in raw blocks.
Taken at the International Ice Carving Competition in Fairbanks, Alaska, held every February.
As I wandered around the Icepark created for the event, I was absolutely entranced with the way the light shone through and refracted within the ice…both carved and in raw blocks.