I have encountered plenty of Alligators during the last 25 years or so. Many of them have been in the Florida Everglades which is one of my favorite National Parks. However, this particular piece was inspired by an encounter at Greenfield Lake in Wilmington, NC in May 2021. I was lucky enough to spot this Alligator as he was just starting to climb the branch of a sunken tree. During the course of a half hour or so I watched as he slowly climbed out of the water and balanced there in the sunshine for a bit, then slid back down into the water on the other side. Always having my camera ready for just these occasions, I took some photos showing the amazing details and patterns on these beautiful creatures.

I have paired this ancient animal with a beautiful Green Heron who is definitely eyeing him with caution. Although the two were not in such close proximity, I also saw Green Herons in my walk around the lake that day. As usual, this painting reminds me of treasured memories of an enchanting encounter.

This is the original painting so there is only one. It is painted in acrylic on a 1 1/2” thick gallery wrapped canvas and the scene continues on the edges for a very finished look. No framing is needed, but if you like frames it can also be framed.  The size of this piece is 24” x 30”.