Two Indian riders and their pack horse move steadily through a snow- covered landscape, following the winding path of a narrow creek lined with willow thickets. In these wild, open places, such waterways served as natural guides—providing not only a reliable source of water, but a navigational thread through rugged terrain. Just as highways chart our routes today, creeks like this one led people through the land, connecting hunting grounds, camps, and distant destinations. In this quiet winter scene, the riders press on, trusting the ancient path carved by water and time.

This piece was painted for this show.