SUBMISSION: High Hopes by Gerald "Jerry" McClaskey

"High Hopes depicts two generations of grizzly bears in the wild. The bear cub high in the limbs of the dead tree longingly gazes as if gazing into the future with a glimmer of hope. The hope that sees grizzly bears thriving and increasing in numbers. I grew up with a love for art and the great outdoors. Some of my fondest memories from early childhood are recollections of how much I loved drawing. Art was my chosen field of study while attending college. I experienced different styles, mediums and found painting to be my preferred choice of expression. My passion allowed me to excel and maintain my position on the Dean’s list. Unfortunately, many responsibilities kept me from obtaining my degree and I put aside my art for more than 20 years. Today I am painting again, pursuing my dreams and discovering the style that best suits me. Pieces taken from nature are among the works I most enjoy creating. Over the years hunting, fishing and exploring in the mountains have molded my relationship with nature. Interpreting the behavior and character of wildlife in its natural environment is the motivation for much of my work, as is capturing the awe of each vivid sunrise, sunset, skyline and landscape that God has created."