Chasing The Champion Trees
of California
For this art collection, I traveled across California in my van, creating plein air drawings of 8 of California’s Champion Trees.
Working alone and on-site, I carried minimal materials - just a drawing pad, pen, pencil and paper - allowing each drawing to emerge directly from the experience of being there.
Each tree holds a distinct presence - marked by time, place, fire, and survival.
This series reflects an intimate dialogue between myself and each tree.
So, what’s a Champion Tree?
A champion tree is the largest known living tree of a specific species - determined by a standardized point system based on height, trunk circumference, and crown spread.
Source: UFEI
Drawing became a way for me to slow down enough to truly witness.
To trace form, texture, and weight while absorbing the subtle energy of each tree.
Created with intention and deep respect for the environment, my work reflects a reverence for the natural world and a desire to preserve and honor it.
These are my Champion Tree portraits.
With more than 100 hours of line, rendering, and intention poured in, each drawing is unfolding.
First in the presence of each Champion Tree, then continued in the outdoors from original photo reference.
These works are still in progress.
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