John Muir Portrait
John Muir is often called The Father of Our National Parks. He was a naturalist, author, and environmental philosopher. His work as an advocate for the preservation of wilderness was pivotal in the legislation of our first national parks. This portrait honors him with his quote, "Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop away from you like the leaves of Autumn."
I created this artwork to be part of my ongoing series of prints for my National Parks Co project. (Instagram Link). My goal with this illustration was to create a piece that would reflect the love that John Muir felt for the wilderness and Yosemite Valley. I carried wispy, lyrical linework through the composition to keep the mood fun and lighthearted. I kept
After posting this image, I had the good fortune to meet Mr. Muir's great-granddaughter through Instagram. I sent her a complimentary print of the image, and she was overjoyed with it, framing the artwork for the Muir Family home.
The following artwork is the preliminary, black and white version of my design that I created first before proceeding to color. I used this drawing to plan the linear patterns that flow through the finished illustration.
- If you have an illustration project that you would like to discuss with me, you can contact me (Bart Bemus) at bbemus@mac.com.
- To see more artwork or to own a print of this image, please visit my National Parks Company website.
- You can find works-in-progress and more of my National Parks Company artwork on Instagram. (Instagram Link)
