traveling in a world of gold // 18”x24” I do love the vibrant greens of spring, but the short and intense autumn in the Rockies is one of the most stunning times of year. The color palette is just perfect. The vividly blue of the clear skies contrast perfectly with the carpets and canopies of golden aspen leaves, interspersed with rusty browns and oranges of the undergrowth. It ends as quickly as it starts, but during those short days it is just the best. This is a recent commission that just arrived with its new owners. Scroll to the end to see a detail of the floating frame and a Poncho who is confused about why I’ve put a large framed painting next to him. . . . . #beartreecreative #customart #commissionpainting #originalpainting #aspens #fallaspens #aspentrees #autumncolors #acrylicpainting #liquitexpaint #mixedmediaart #prismacolormarkers #micronpens
0 8 // w I n t e r m e d I t a t i o n W A N D E R // W O N D E R In the heart of winter, venturing out into the woods often brings you into a world of silence and stillness. The animals are less active or have left for warmer climes. The blanket of snow muffles the sounds of any that are left in the area. The streams and lakes are mostly frozen over, hushing the sound of any water left flowing. Even the colors are muted to a nearly monochrome palette. It’s as if the whole world is taking the time for introspection, thinking on things that have gone, and of new things to come with the passage of the seasons. For the moment, one can just breathe in the solitude and quiet of the forest at rest. I know it’s not winter anymore, but we recently had another snowfall here in Colorado, and while it didn’t quite have that midwinter stillness, I did feel as though I Poncho and I were the only beings around when we went for a walk that morning. 11”x14” acrylic, alcohol marker, and ink on toned paper . . . . #beartreecreative #winter #solitude #winterforest #frozenstream #meditation #coloradowinter #winterhiking #acrylicpainting #mixedmediaart #liquitexpaint #prismacolormarkers #micronpen
W H I T E B A R K 8”x10” on wood panel This is another from the set I shipped out last week. This one features a whitebark pine, a tree native to the subalpine of much of the northern Rockies. They grow in very sculptural forms, taking on almost bonsai-like qualities as they get older. I really like how the black interior of the frame makes the painting almost feel like it’s just floating there. Unfortunately this is a species that has been heavily impacted by pine bark beetles, leaving large swaths filled with dead whitebark pines. . . . . #beartreecreative #whitebark #whitebarkpine #pine #pinetree #pinetreepainting #painting #mixedmediaart #acrylicpainting #liquitex #liquitexpaint #prismacolor #prismacolormarkers #micronpens #fineliner
Winter decided to visit again, so it felt right to work on this new wintery painting. You guys have any fun plans for the weekend? . . . . #beartreecreative #wip #workinprogress #wanderwonder #paintingprocess #winterforest #frozenstream #snowbanks #colorado #coloradowinter #acrylicpainting #mixedmediaart
T H E C R A Z I E S // Crazy Mountains, Montana 12”x24” acrylic, alcohol markers, ink. This commission has reached its new home, and I’m super excited to be able to share it with you! Featuring the stunning Crazy Mountains of southwest Montana in springtime. The Crazies are an island range, meaning they don’t directly connect to any other ranges, so whenever you are approaching them, no matter what direction you are coming from, you can see the whole range jutting up out of the surrounding valleys. This painting was part of a three painting set, so the new owner now has all kinds of art to decorate his house with. . . . . #beartreecreative #customartwork #originalpainting #landscapepainting #mountainart #mountainpainting #crazymountains #montana #southwestmontana #livingston #bigtimber #acrylicpainting #acrylic #mixedmedia #liquitex #prismacolor #prismacolormarkers #micronpens
0 6 // a f t e r n o o n g l o w W A N D E R // W O N D E R Colorado may not have the array of reds, oranges, and yellows that you get with autumn on the east coast, but there is truly something special about seeing a vast swath of aspens that have all turned bright gold at the same time. The fact that many groves of aspens are in reality single organisms connected underground causes the unified change of color that we witness. It’s not that a whole bunch of different trees are all turning at the same time, but rather that it’s just one tree that is much larger than it would appear. I love fall in the Rockies. It’s generally very brief, but those few short weeks when you can be walking through a world surrounded by golden hues of leaves on the ground and falling with the gentlest breeze, the bright white tree trunks, and a dazzlingly blue sky are incredible. 11”x14” acrylic, alcohol marker, and ink on toned paper. . . . . #beartreecreative #aspens #goldenaspens #fallcolors #autumnleaves #wanderwonder #mixedmediaart #liquitexpaint #liquitexacrylics #prismacolormarkers #micronpen #originalart #artseries
While Bear Tree’s primary focus is painting landscapes of people’s favorite outdoor memories, we are really excited to be launching a new mural creation service. These larger-scale, custom designs let the outdoors inside and bring a whole new life to the space they inhabit. If a mural is not in your immediate future, there are other ways you can support our grassroots, word-of-mouth effort to gain a foothold, including: -Let your friends know about the work we offer. It’s one-of-a-kind and deeply rooted in the outdoors. -Follow the Bear Tree journey on social media! -Shop for small gifts with us. We have some beautiful greeting cards, prints, stickers, and calendars that are based on original, hand-painted designs - you can tell your friends you knew us before we were cool. Thank you SO MUCH for helping to spread the word about Bear Tree Creative and the fun, uplifting work we want to share with the world. We appreciate you and are sending you our best. :) . . . . #beartreecreative #mural #muralartist #commissionsopen
0 7 // a f t e r t h e s t o r m W A N D E R // W O N D E R Springtime in Colorado often brings some pretty epic thunderstorms. Dark purple clouds build over the mountains and unleash rain at what is sometimes a shocking rate, but then, as they begin to break, the sun shines through, illuminating wet hillsides is sparking light and frequently producing stunning rainbows. This painting is an ode to these wonderful moments when you have survived the storm and are rewarded with one of natures displays that are truly magical and fleeting. Hope everyone out there is enjoying the springtime and all the changes and beauty this time of year brings to the world. . . . . #beartreecreative #springtime #rainstorm #afterthestorm #rainbows #originalartwork #acrylicpainting #mixedmediaart #liquitex #prismacolormarkers #micronpens #colorado #frontrange
Here is the finished mural! It’s about ten feet long and four feet high in the corner of the family’s playroom. I was asked to have it inspired by fall in the mountains of Colorado. They love the bright yellows of the aspens and wanted that to be a main feature, along with some indications of critters being out there. Other than that they were pretty open to me styling it however felt right, and they love the result! What’s your favorite part of the mural? Let us know in the comments! I gave it everything I’ve got and I couldn’t be happier with the result. Scroll to the end to see the full view of it in the room. . . . . #beartreecreative #mural #muralpainting #muralist #indoormural #landscapemural #landscapepainting #mountains #mountainart #coloradolife #aspens #fallaspens #yellowleaves #wildernesstrail #woodlandcritters
We have started partnering with a small, volunteer-run organization here in Fort Collins, CO called Poudre Wilderness Volunteers (PWV). PWV works closely with the US Forest Service to help manage and protect local trails and backcountry areas within its jurisdiction. They also provide educational support for folks who want to spend more time on trails and in wilderness areas, making such recreational pursuits more accessible and enjoyable. Bear Tree recently donated a few pieces of original artwork to help the PWV volunteer base kick off their annual service season at the Spring Tune Up event. We might still be a small business but we are really psyched to be giving back to the outdoor community. Follow them @poudre_wilderness_volunteers to see how they are making a difference! . . . . #beartreecreative #poudre #poudrewildernessvolunteers #nationalforest #volunteers #nonprofits #nonprofitsrock #givebacktothecommunity
Occasionally people request a painting is a looser, more impressionistic style, which is a fun change. It’s a chance to focus more on the feel of a place rather than trying to capture specific details. Here are a couple examples custom paintings of summer in high alpine meadows. Lots of splashes of color for the wildflowers and vibrant greens that come with the seasonal explosion of life in these extreme environments. . . . . #beartreecreative #painting #impressionistart #alpine #alpinemeadows #highalpine #rockymountains #summerinthemountains #acrylicpainting #acrylics #liquitex #liquitexpaint
Now available in our shop, Wander/Wonder greeting card packs. From now until Earth Day (April 22), if you order a card pack you will get two of our Critter cards as a bonus! And you even get to pick which ones you want. How neat is that? Cards are printed in a heavyweight cream colored card stock, and are blank on the inside. Perfect for any occasion! Mother’s Day is coming up soon (May 12) as is Teacher Appreciation Week (May 6-10). You’re Cool and I Appreciate You Day is also every day of the year :) Get them now at beartreecreative.com or follow the link in our bio. . . . . #shopupdate #greetingcards #greetingcardsforsale #wanderwonder #beartreecreative #thankyoucards #bonusgift #critters #originalartwork
Working on a new one. It was winter last week, now it feels like spring, so I decided painting a fall scene made the most sense. Someone’s gotta bring balance to the force. . . . . #wip #workinprogress #treepainting #fallaspens #fallvibes #yellowleaves #wanderwonder #beartreecreative #acrylicpainting #mixedmedia #landscapepainting #treesplease
Throwback to some more of the 15 minute studies I did over the summer. These ones are an aspen trunk, yucca, and a ponderosa pine. . . . . #beartreecreative #florastudy #artstudy #prismacolormarkers #micronpen #aspen #ponderosa #ponderosapine #yucca
0 5 // c h a s i n g w a t e r f a l l s W A N D E R // W O N D E R TLC got a lot of things right, but i think maybe they didn’t have enough time in the Rockies seeing the beautiful variety of waterfalls, because personally I think they a something worth chasing. But I know that you’re gonna have it your way or nothing at all, so if the rivers and lakes are your thing then I guess stick with that. Maybe I don’t actually know what that song is about. Sometimes the best ones are ones you didn’t even know were out there until you are standing at the foot of them. 11”x14” acrylic, alcohol marker, and ink on toned paper. . . . . #beartreecreative #wanderwonder #artseries #landscapepainting #waterfalls #waterfallpainting #coloradoartist #tlc #dontgochasingwaterfalls #dogochasingwaterfalls #youdoyou #acrylicpainting #mixedmedia #prismacolor #micronpens
Today we have for you: dogs in hats! These good boys are very good boys. Happy Tuesday, friends. . . . . #beartreecreative #dogsinhats #dogsofinstagram #goodboys #goodboyclub #itsaharddoglife #inhats #thegoodestboy #bestfwends #doggos #dogsareliterallythebest
0 4 // b e e p a s t u r e W A N D E R // W O N D E R Summer in the high alpine of the Rockies is amazing. The small streams—the headwaters of many of the country’s mightiest rivers—babble happily through boulder fields and wildflower filled meadows. The air is alive with the sounds of insects, birds and the occasional marmot yelling at you to get off his lawn. The brilliantly blue skies that can turn into epic thunderstorms in the blink of an eye. One of my favorite things to do is hang a hammock in the shade of the first trees at the edge of the meadow and just enjoy being a part of a community that is without a doubt living its best life. The name of this painting is inspired by the writings of John Muir from his wanders in the mountains of California. Looking forward to this summer when I will able to begin exploring the vast wildernesses near my new home. 11”x14” acrylic, alcohol marker, and ink on toned paper. ©2024 . . . . #beartreecreative #wanderwonder #alpinemeadows #wildflowermeadow #headwaters #highalpine #colorado #coloradoart #coloradoartist #artseries #beepasture #acrylicpainting #acrylic #mixedmedia #mixedmediapainting
The first few in a series of 15 minute studies I began over the summer. Alcohol marker and ink pens. . . . . #beartreecreative #prismacolormarkers #plantstudy #15minutedrawing #artstudy #markerdrawing #treedrawing #artseries
Here is another one. This painting celebrates the vibrant palette of colors you find during autumn in the many canyons found arcos the Front Range of Colorado. The bright yellows of the cottonwood leaves, the vibrant blue sky, the reds and dusty oranges of the rocks. The dark greens of the evergreens. 11”x14” acrylic, alcohol marker, and ink on toned paper. ©️2024 . . . . #beartreecreative #wanderwonder #coloradolife #frontrange #coloradofall #canyon #redrocks #fallcolors #riverside #coloradoartist #mixedmedia #acrylicpainting #prismacolor #liquitex #micron
Throwback Thursday! The mountain that started it all, and the one I have painted more than any other individual mountain. Here are a few of the Lone Peaks I have painted over the last few years. Do you have a favorite? Let us know in the comments! . . . . #beartreecreative #lonepeak #artseries #originalart #bigsky #montana #bigskymontana #bigskyresort
Here is a sneak peak at the design sketch for a BIG project that is currently underway! Stay tuned in the next couple of weeks to watch it become reality. . . . . #beartreecreative #mural #muralartist #wallpainting #wip #workinprogress #landscape #colorado #coloradoinspired
0 2 // r i v e r s i d e t r a i l W A N D E R // W O N D E R Throughout Fort Collins, there are many designated Natural Areas, many of them along waterways and encompassing wetlands. They each have various trails weaving through them, everything from paved bike paths to small dirt single tracks. Now that I have been here for an extended time I have often found myself drawn to these areas, especially the ones along the Poudre River, Colorado’s only Wild and Scenic River, and have been able to see the character of the river change through the seasons. With winter the river is low and slow, which in many places results in near perfect reflections of the leafless trees on the opposite bank. Whenever I come to a place where there is a single, isolated tree, I am struck by the clarity of the reflections, even though the water is still flowing. The ducks seem to like it too, even though the waters are barely above freezing. 11”x14” acrylic, alcohol marker, and ink on toned paper. . . . #beartreecreative #wanderwonder #artseries #originalart #mixedmedia #liquitex #liquitexpaint #micron #prismacolor #prismacolormarkers #winterriver #treereflections #ducksonthewater
a u t u m n s n o w f a l l // Big Sky, MT Though winter can come at any part of the year in southwest Montana, the fall likes to provide a clear visual of just how close winter is as the snow line literally descends upon you. Some of the most beautiful days are when it just coats the mountain peaks, and the meadow doesn’t get any, giving a full seasonal transition as you go a mere few hundred feet in elevation. This painting is for a long time resident of Big Sky who has recently moved away from the area. Living on Little Coyote Road for years, the view across the fishing pond and golf course with Lone Peak rising dramatically in the background was a regular fixture in her life and one of her favorites in the area. Now she will always be able to see that view, with the golden willows along the creek and the freshly dusted peak, and the promise of a winter of fun times with good friends just around the corner. 12”x18” acrylic, alcohol marker, and ink on wood panel ©2024 . . . . #beartreecreative #originalart #customart #customcommission #paintedplywood #bigsky #bigskymontana #montana #montanaart #lonepeak
Throwback Thursday! Enjoy this painting of early morning light on the Diamond of Longs Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park. Private commission painted in 2022. Sunrise at Chasm Lake // RMNP, Colorado 18”x24” acrylic, alcohol marker, and ink on stained wood panel . . . . #beartreecreative #longspeak #rockymountainnationalpark #throwbackthursday #colorado #rmnp #mountainart #acrylicpainting #paintedplywood #chasmlake #14ers #climbing #climbingart
We’ve been working on the Bear Tree website recently and are feeling good about the updates it’s gotten! Come check it out and learn more about how we could work together to create a custom painting that captures one of your favorite outdoor memories. You can also subscribe to receive email notes from us, learn more about our processes, and shop for Bear Tree art - the majestic, the cute, and the quirky. . . . . #beartreecreative #websiteupdate #customart #sofreshandsoclean
We had a great time at @mythmakerbrewing this past weekend! Check out the second and third pic to see how the painting is going versus how it started during our time there. Come find us again on Saturday, this time we will be at @maxlinebrew from 12:30-2:30. It’s the perfect place for a beer, lunch, and some fun art on a Saturday afternoon. We will have some of our own coloring pages as well as colorable coasters for your beertime enjoyment. See you there! . . . . #beartreecreative #mythmaker #mythmakerbrewing #maxline #maxlinebrewing #livepainting #meettheartist #breweryevents #acrylicpainting #colorado #wanderwonder #fortcollins #fortcollinsart #focoart
Around the Bend // summer aspens and lupine Here is a little progression to show you how this first painting of our WANDER//WONDER series came to be, along with some detail pictures of the finished painting. I was able to do some painting at Maxline Brewery here in Fort Collins for part of the painting process, which was really fun. It was nice to sit outside on a warm, sunny day, paint, and talk to people about art. And enjoy some @maxlinebrew beer, of course. We will be doing several other live painting sessions at breweries around town these next few months. If you see us out there, we’d love for you to come up and say hello! Next we will be at Mythmaker Brewing in a couple weeks! 11”x14” mixed media on tinted paper. ©️2024 . . . . @mythmakerbrewing #beartreecreative #wanderwonder #wip #workinprogress #livepainting #progress #aspentrees #treepainting #lupines #summerwildflowers #wildflowers #aroundthebend
If you’ve spent any time outdoors recently, we’d bet that you’ve stumbled into your own moment or two of unexpected beauty. Share your fave pics from your adventures in the past year - the extra and the ordinary - with a little title that describes the moment. . . . . #beartreecreative #unexpectedbeauty #wanderwonder #everydaybeauty #alpenglow #mountainsunrise #rivertime #mistycliffs
W A N D E R // W O N D E R – c o l o r a d o a journey through moments of unexpected awe Do you ever have those moments when the beauty of the world around you makes your breath catch a little, and you have to pause for a moment just to take it all in? Often it seems to happen in what are otherwise ordinary places, maybe ones you even see regularly, but if you are there at precisely the right moment, everything seems to come together in perfect harmony, sometimes just for a fleeting instant, and then it’s gone. It might be the way a beam of light is illuminating a small patch of wildflowers among the trees as you round a bend in the trail, or a small, still pool adjacent to a creek that is reflecting the brightly colored autumn leaves above it, or an owl that swoops past you to land on a branch just out of reach and solemnly watches as you make your way by it. Andy is starting a new series of paintings for 2024, where the focus is not so much on the destinations and views you might set out to find, but rather on these moments of being in the right place at the right time to experience those special bits of nature’s wonder. And seeing as it is his first year living back in Colorado after a decade in Montana, we’ve decided to focus mainly on this state for now. Join us on a journey this year as we wander the state, looking for the special times that add some extra to the ordinary. . . . . #beartreecreative #wanderwonder #newseries #artseries #newartwork #wip #workinprogress #upcomingartists #aspens #aspentrees #painting #mixedmediaart #acrylicpainting
Andy painted this sweet south-facing image of Horsetooth Reservoir for us this past holiday season. My family moved to Fort Collins back in August of 2020 and our youngest son, Weston, was born here in Fort Collins a year ago. I love having a painting that reminds me of the magic in this place we now call home - and will get to explore with our kiddos as they grow up. First Snow on the Reservoir // Acrylic and ink on stained plywood, 18”x24” . . . . #beartreecreative #horsetoothreservoir #fortcollins #fortcollinscolorado #fortcollinsart #localart #northerncolorado #paintedplywood #acrylicpainting #mixedmediaart #customart #holidaygift
So are you guys starting off 2024 with a “new year, new you” attitude, or are you more in the “new year, same you” camp? I would tell you which I’m doing, but instead I’ll tell you that last night I ate a bag full of chocolate chip cookies/brownies that had been baked together into one thing. So you can decide for yourself how I’ve living my life. Happy New Year my friends. . . . . #newyearnewyou #newyearsameyou #newyearsresolution #resolution #2024goals #digitalart #beartreecreative #happynewyear
Even though it feels like it’s the start of a long, dark season, we always have to remind ourselves that the start of winter signals the return of sunshine and more light in the sky. And this is excellent news. So while we may have a lot of winter still to go, each day will be a little brighter than the one before. Yay, sun! Happy New Year’s Eve Eve! . . . . #beartreecreative #wintersolstice #brighterdays #ontheup #sunshinestateofmind #sunbeams #rayofsunshine #rayofhope #winterhascome #butspringiscoming #paintings #sunlightpainting #paintedplywood
Here at Bear Tree Creative, we make custom paintings to commemorate places that are special to you. Want to give your spouse the view from the mountain where you got engaged? Did you take trip overseas and see some sights that you want to be able to see in your home everyday? We can do that! Or maybe it’s a family cabin that was sold, but that you had years of cherished memories at. That was the case with this painting of a cute little cabin nestled in the woods near Mount Rainier that became a gift for her dad. But don’t take my word for it, here is what she has to say: “I’ve commissioned two different pieces as gifts and both way exceeded my expectations, and the recipients were both blown away by these beautiful paintings. Working with Andy was easy, efficient, and his work is beyond stunning. If you’re looking for a thoughtful, one of a kind gift, (or something for yourself!) I highly recommend.” Follow the link in our bio to get started with your own custom artwork today! . . . . #beartreecreative #custom #customart #madeforyou #painting #paintedplywood #acrylicpainting #acrylic #mixedmedia #mountainart #mountrainier #washington #washingtonstate #packwood #cabin #aframe
Happy Winter Solstice, everyone! It’s the longest night of the whole year... step outside and see what the darkness can offer. This painting tries to capture the majesty of the cosmos over Bearhat Mountain and Hidden Lake in Glacier National Park. That place, and the stars you can see there on a clear night, is truly out of this world. . . . . #beartreecreative #glacier #glaciernationalpark #bearhat #hiddenlake #montana #solstice #winter #wintersolstice
Do you have a favorite of the bewilder critters from our 2023 calendar? Let us know in the comments which of these you like best! We have a few of these that now have the calendar trimmed off and are framed on the wall. They are a great addition to the decor for a kids room. . . . . #beartreecreative #calendarart #bewilder #critters #digitalpainting #kidsroomdecor
What’s your favorite magical thing about winter? I absolutely love when it has been a clear, cold night, and in the mornings, when the sun is coming up, every single twig, leaf, and blade of grass is coated in delicate ice crystals. The way they catch the light and turn the whole world into sparkling diamonds gets me every time. They melt away so quickly, that if you aren’t there for those first few moments, right as the sun hits them, you’ll miss it. That fleeting nature is part of what makes those things so special. They turn ordinary places that you might see every day into something extraordinary, for just a short window of time. The visible magic doesn’t last, but it can stick with you long after it has faded. Poncho didn’t really care about the ice crystals. He was more interested in sniffing the rabbit tracks. But to each their own. . . . . #beartreecreative #icecrystals #winter #wintermagic #frosty #frostymorning #morningwalk #fleetingmoments #poncho
More illustrations from the @bigskyresort Kids Adventure Map project! Here we have Freemont’s Forest, Turkey Traverse, and Toboggan Tree. Happy Friday, everyone! . . . . #beartreecreative #bigsky #bigskyresort #bigskymontana #montana #skiresort #skitrails #adventuremap #illustration #illustrationartists #digitalart #digitalpainting
Throwback Thursday! I have for you a series of drawings I did on a five month (mostly) solo trip through Colombia, Peru, and Ecuador back in 2019. I love South America so much. That continent has the wildest variety of landscapes, and the people are so warm and welcoming. I’m a huge fan of extended travel… the lack of immediate time constraints really lets you get into the rhythm of living in a place that you just can’t get on a trip that only lasts a week or two. I’m incredibly grateful that I’ve had the opportunity and ability to pack up and leave for distant places and immerse myself in their world. Working seasonal jobs definitely has its pros and cons, but having off-seasons that allow for it is absolutely one of the pros. I hope you enjoy seeing this selection of sketchs, it made me happy to make them. . . . . #beartreecreative #drawnoutwest #southamerica #colombia #peru #ecuador #travel #travelart #drawings #sketchbook #landscapeart
We've got the giving spirit here at BTC! Now through December 1st, we are gifting our iconic peaks prints for free, while supplies last. If you know that you would value a print of BTC original artwork AND you have a friend you'd like to gift one to as well, let us know in the comments! We'll ship you two random designs... one to keep and one to share. If you like what you got, share a picture of it and be sure to tag us! Happy holidays! . . . . #beartreecreative #giveaway #artgiveaway #holidaygiveaway #freegift #payitforward #mountainart #painting #artprint
Happy opening day at Big Sky! These illustrations are for runs that will be some of the earliest accessible based on snow conditions. Keep your eyes out for them when you are out shredding these coming days. These ones are Banana Land, Carwash, and Bison Banks. Here’s to the start of a great season!! . . . . #beartreecreative #bigsky #bigskyresort #bigskymontana #montana #skiresort #openingday #illustration #digitalart @bigskyresort
Working on some ideas for a new series… still working out the kinks of what it’s going to be. Happy Tuesday friends. . . . . #beartreecreative #wip #workinprogress #newseries #painting #acrylicpainting #fallcolors
More illustrations from the @bigskyresort Kids Adventure Map! These are the Yellow Dino Bootpack, Hangman’s Cliff, and White Fang Forest. Happy Friday everyone! Anyone have exciting plans for this last weekend before the holiday season officially starts? . . . . #beartreecreative #bigsky #bigskymontana #bigskyresort #yellowdino #adventuremap #illustration #skiresort #illustrationartists
Here is a closer look at a few illustrations from the @bigskyresort Kids Adventure Map project! These three are Harbor’s Halfpipe, Grizzly Drops, and Lone Creek Gully. In addition to the map and the stickers, look for new signs around the mountain featuring these full illustrations along with all the others this winter! . . . . #beartreecreative #bigsky #bigskyresort #bigskymontana #montana #skiresort #illustration #adventuremap #skitime #harborshalfpipe #grizzlydrops #lonecreek #comingsoon #illustrationartists
This painting of fall colors at Mount Shuksan I did on driftwood collected along the Skagit River in Washington has gone off to a new home! Thanks again to @uprivergrill for providing me a place to display some of the art I made that is inspired by your incredible backyard in int North Cascades of Washington. The other painting I did there on driftwood of the Picket Range in still on display at the Upriver Grill and Taproom. If you are in Marblemount stop in, grab a beer, and check out some one of a kind artwork! . . . . #beartreecreative #washingtonstate #northcascades #mountshuksan #shuksan #glacier #driftwood #painteddriftwood #originalart #mountainart #acrylicpainting
Want to know a fun fact about Poncho? Poncho loves his treats and will drool (honestly, pretty aggressively) whenever there is food or treats in his near future, but he is also incredibly patient and will hold even the most delectable of goodies on his nose and wait until he gets the go ahead to eat it. We are currently working on combining this skill with other tricks. I’ll update you on his skills once we have that down. . . . . #beartreecreative #dogsofinstagram #dogtricks #treats #ponchothewonderpup #goodboy
Throwback… Friday? to these snowghosts I painted a while back. Winter made its first real appearance here in Colorado last week, although it’s back to sunny and mid 60s now. Who here is ready for winter? Anyone out there dreading it? Well it’ll be here soon either way, just like the weekend. :)) Happy Friday y’all. This painting is available. If you are interested DM me. . . . . #beartreecreative #snowghosts #throwback #artforsale #winter #winterpainting #snow #winteriscoming #whitefish #montana #acrylicpainting #artistsofinstagram #paintedplywood #originalart
Here is a first look at the big project I’ve spent the last several months working on with @bigskyresort. It’s an adventure map highlighting a couple dozen “secret” runs of varying difficulty around the mountain for kids and families to find! I’ll share more about it in the coming days, but for now enjoy these two sections of the full map. . . . . #beartreecreative #bigsky #bigskyresort #bigskymontana #montana #skiresort #trailmap #adventuremap #skiadventure #illustration #digitalpainting #amithenext #jamesniehues #letssayyes
This is Gerald. I was recently accused of not being able to draw a llama, and also not even knowing what a llama looks like by two 10 year olds and a four year old. So I painted Gerald in an attempt to show them that wasn’t true. They weren’t impressed. The feedback I received was basically “where’s the body?” from all of them. But that’s okay because I like Gerald. Anyway, I hope you enjoy seeing Gerald, too. I will be able to share what I’ve been working on for the past several months soon! I’ll give you a hint, it wasn’t Gerald, but it does involve some goofy little critters. . . . . #beartreecreative #llama #llamaart #llamapainting #llamasofinstagram #acrylicpainting #critterart #comingsoon #staytuned
L O N E P E A K // Big Sky, Montana Here’s another Lone Peak painting I made this past winter. I’m gonna have to change how I paint this mountain in the future with the modifications #bigskyresort is making to the summit with the new tram. This pretty lady (the mountain, not me) is getting a fancy new hat this summer. Have a good weekend friends. . . . . #bigsky #montana #lonepeak #skiresort #mountain #mountainart #acrylicpainting #commission #soldart #lonepeaktram #beartreecreative
First Light on the Tetons // Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming The Tetons have long been one of my favorite mountain ranges. The way they rise so dramatically and abruptly from the mostly flat basin that is Jackson Hole never fails to make my breath catch, and is the reason I have a hard time driving in the area, because I struggle to tear my eyes off those majestic peaks and actually look at the road. The Grand towers around 7000 feet above the valley floor, and has basically no foothills leading up to it. If you have never been, go. You won’t regret it. It’s amazing. This painting captures the view you see of the range as you come down towards them from the north near Jackson Lake. If you love the Tetons, you could have a way to see them everyday in your own home with this original painting. If you are interested, let me know. . . . . #beartreecreative #tetons #grandtetons #grandtetonnationalpark #originalart #artforsale #mountainart #paintedplywood #jacksonhole #wyoming #jacksonwyoming
I could go for being at a mountain lake like this. Maybe hang a hammock between some trees and watch the fish rise. Anyone have plans like that for this weekend? Happy Friday, friends. . . . . #beartreecreative #elements #mountains #mountainlake #reflections #weekendplans #mountainart #digitalpainting #summervibes #summerinthemountains
WILD GOOSE ISLAND // Saint Mary Lake, Glacier NP (24”x30”) Looking west across Saint Mary Lake along the Going to the Sun Road is another iconic view of Glacier National Park. With the small, but picturesque, Wild Goose Island and towering mountain walls lining both sides of the lake, this is probably one of the most photographed views anywhere in the park. And for good reason. It’s friggin beautiful. This framed painting is still available, if you are interested please either message us directly or visit our shop. Link is in the bio. Scroll through to see some detail shots. . . . . #beartreecreative #glacier #glaciernationalpark #saintmarylake #wildgooseisland #goingtothesun #goingtothesunroad #montana #mountains #mountainart #artforsale #customart #painting #acrylicpainting #paintedplywood
I landed a sweet gig creating art for a rather big place! Can't say much about it right now, but sky's the limit! 😉😁🤩 Here is a sneak peek at some small segments of the much larger piece. . . . . #wip #workinprogress #layers #shadows #commission #snow #winter #sneakpeek #moretocome #staytuned #hintsinthetext #drawnoutwest #beartreecreative #montanaartist
I know it’s not Thursday, but here’s a throwback to some of the paintings I’ve made that have all found new homes. Thanks to everyone who has supported me through buying my art. I wouldn’t be able to be doing this without you. 🙏🤘🖖 And I still have some that could use homes, in case you looking to adopt. . . . . #beartreecreative #drawnoutwest #gratitude #smallbusinesssupport #itsprettyneat #theresmoreoutthere
BTC is in the mural business! With our first foray into wall sized artwork behind us, we’re psyched for more projects like this. Do you have a kids playroom, an ugly garage wall, or some other space in your life that could use some fresh new art? We are available throughout the summer in northern Colorado to collaborate with you! . . . . #beartreecreative #mural #muralart #customart #fortcollins #fortcollinsart #colorado #coloradoart #mountainmural #foco #indoormural
We are back in the world from our winter hibernation! When we launched BTC late in 2022, we knew it would be followed with a bit of a hiatus shortly afterward. Andy returned to Big Sky for a final winter season and Megan introduced a new family member to the world! Now that the snow is gone and the baby is 6 months old, we're stoked to be back at this business endeavor. On the docket for 2023 so far: finding retail partners to sell BTC products; expanding our custom project capacity (including murals!), and designing some fun new products for all y'all to enjoy. . . . . #beartreecreative #donehibernating #weareback #newbaby #mural #muralart #newproducts #summer #fortcollins #fortcollinscolorado #colorado #staytuned
L O N G ‘ S P E A K // Rocky Mountain National Park (12”x18”) Are you folks looking for some original art to give someone special this holiday season? We have several finished pieces available in our shop that you can pick up right now, including this one of some misty clouds around the Diamond Face of Long’s Peak in Colorado. We also have gift certificates available if you are interested in something more custom, or are unsure what the subject should be! If you are interested in either let us know! There is still some time left to get a custom original before the holidays, but that window is closing fast! Hope everyone is having a wonderful week! . . . . . #beartreecreative #originalart #custompainting #painting #mountainart #mountainpainting #longspeak #colorado #rockymountainnationalpark #rmnp #coloradoart #acrylicpainting #acrylics #paintedplywood #woodpanelart #mountains #14er #14ers #giftideas #gift #giftcerficate #artgift #holidaygifts
With roots in the rustic landscapes of the Rocky Mountains, Bear Tree Creative is a multimedia creative endeavor bringing the magic of wildness to human spaces that need a burst of joy and life. Bear Tree Creative is a family-owned and operated company committed to offering high-quality art that doesn’t take itself - or life - too seriously. Now let me introduce you to the Bear Tree crew! First up is the puppers, because we all know that who everyone really wants to meet. This here lil nugget is Poncho. He is Andy’s dog/best friend, and has the energy of a thousand suns. He likes sticks and snuggles a whole lot. Loki is Megan’s dog, aka Poncho’s cousin, and while he loves to play, he definitely has to tell Cho when it’s time to quit. He loves to howl when his friend’s show up, and can chase a laser pointer with the best of them. I’m Andy, the artist behind Bear Tree Creative. Growing up in Colorado, I spent a lot of time outdoors from building forts in the cattails in the park near my childhood home, to exploring further afield on camping trips or family vacations to national parks all around the west. A love of wild places and natural beauty was instilled in me at a young age, and has developed into a passion that has shaped who I am and what I do today. Hi, Megan here! As Andy’s older sister, I shared a childhood with Bear Tree Creative’s artist-in-chief. Though I consider myself crafty and can navigate many types of creative projects, I am naturally drawn to all things organizational and grounded in logistics. I’ve dabbled in various jobs throughout my career and have picked up many skills that lend themselves to the creation and maintenance of a small business. My role here at BTC gives me the opportunity to put many of those skills to good use, while maintaining my obligatory role as a slightly bossy older sibling. Thanks for following along, and if you happened to be in Fort Collins next weekend, come on by the FoCo Holiday Artisan Market and say hi! It’s both Friday and Saturday 10-4 and free to get in. See you there! . . . . #beartreecreative #introduction #smallbusiness #fortcollins #colorado #dogs #dogsofinstagram #artistoninstagram
Like the idea of giving someone custom artwork for the holidays but can’t decide what the subject should be? Don’t fret! Bear Tree Creative offers gift certificates that let your loved ones collaborate directly with us to capture a favorite memory! You can specify an amount or a painting size that you would like to gift. But don’t take my word for it, listen to the happy art owners! “The process of collaborating with Andy is simple. He can take a basic idea like paint me some Icelandic mountains and run with it or he can take very specific instructions and images and create an amazing piece of art. It’s great to be able to bring both broad ideas or very specific ideas and get a wonderful product either way.” -Chris from Washington Looking forward to working with you to bring your memories to life! Scroll through to see some details of this painting of Kirkjufell in western Iceland. . . . . #beartreecreative #collaboration #artcollaboration #artcollector #customart #custompainting #mountainart #holidaygiftideas #artgift #kirkjufell #kirkjufellsfoss #iceland #icelandart #painting #acrylicpainting #waterfall #mountains #paintedplywood
Who doesn’t love a tasty ice cream cone in the midsummer heat? This here bear sure does, he just didn’t expect to see you there watching him enjoy his treat. This is one of our new Bewilder Critters… a group of forest friends that somehow always seem to not be 100% sure how they ended up doing their current activity. We hope you like them, they are available in several forms at the moment, including prints and on our “Oh… Hello” series of greeting cards, and will soon be available on more items. See the link in our bio for the shop. Swipe to see what the prints and cards look like, along with the full art image. . . . . . #beartreecreative #bewilder #critters #bewildecritters #prints #artprints #cards #greetingcards #greetingcardsforsale #originalart #originalartwork #digitalart #digitalillustration
Alrighty folks! I know it’s has been a while since I have posted anything, and in my last post I hinted at some things I’ve had in the works…. So now I’m happy to announce that what I’ve been working on is the next evolution of this art business—Bear Tree Creative! My sister and I are now working together to bring the business to next level, and we are branching out into a broader product line beyond just the wood panel paintings and stickers. I will, however, continue to post original paintings here as well. Go check it out @beartreecreative! There will be more posts about new products and happenings coming soon. Some parts of our website are still under construction, but most of it is live! Thanks friends!! . . . . #beartreecreative #drawnoutwest #artist #artbusiness #smallbusiness #artshop #familyowned #isntthatneat
Oh, hello. It’s us! We are thrilled to announce the official launch of Bear Tree Creative, a small, family-operated art shop based in the Rocky Mountains. We specialize in connecting you with the outdoor places and memories that make you feel most alive. We have lots of fun, ready-made products that you can peruse in our shop. We also love to collaborate with people to create custom original artwork that capture the spirit of your favorite moments outside. See you around! Megan and Andy . . . . . #beartreecreative #artshop #smallbusiness #outdoorart #outdoors #handmadeart #customart #collaboration #artadventure