Superior Rock Art
Lake Superior is known for its beautiful and unique rocks, which can be found along the rocky shores and beaches of the lake. One of my favourite pastimes other than photography is searching for these rocks and bringing them home to polish in my rock tumbler.
The process of polishing Lake Superior rocks can be time-consuming, but the results are worth the effort. First, I sort and cut the rocks before placing them in the tumbler with water and abrasive grit. The tumbler rotates the rocks for 4 weeks, gradually smoothing out any rough edges and bringing out the natural colours and patterns of the stones.
As the days go by, I enjoy checking on the progress of the rocks and seeing how they're transforming. After several rounds of tumbling with progressively finer grit, the rocks are incredibly smooth and shiny. Each one has its own unique beauty, follow along with me on Instagram and TikTok.
After I have a selection of beautifully polished rocks, I incorporate them into my original pencil drawings of trees, mushrooms, and Northern Ontario scenery. I love the contrast between the smooth, polished rocks and the intricate details of the drawings.
To add an extra element of depth to my pieces, I often incorporate suns and moons using metal leaf. The shine of the metal leaf adds a special sparkle to the artwork, and the celestial motifs give the pieces a sense of wonder and whimsy.
Incorporating the rocks I find on Lake Superior into my art is a way for me to connect with the natural beauty of the world around me. Each piece is a unique reflection of my experiences and the inspiration I find in Northern Ontario. The combination of natural elements and artistic expression creates truly special and one-of-a-kind pieces that brings me back to the shores of Lake Superior every time I look at them.