20” x 48” Acrylic Painting on Canvas

<< Custom framing available >>

I had the privilege of hiking to this valley last summer, and I’ll never forget the inspiration it gave me. I decided it was time to paint a piece that would hopefully do this stunning place justice.

“Jumbo Wild” represents a very special place in the heart of the Purcell mountain range. Jumbo Valley was sought after by ski resort developers for nearly 30 years, and is one of North Americas most important wildlife corridors. Purcell Mountain grizzly bears are connected to grizzly bears in the Rocky Mountains, to the wild spaces in the north and even as far south as Yellowstone. Bears depend on this connection for survival—without it, bear populations become islands that wither away over time.

Local residents fought against the development of Jumbo Valley Ski Resort development for years. In early 2020, the Ktunaxa Nation, with the support of Federal and Provincial governments, declared the Qat’muk Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area, protecting the Jumbo Valley and 700 square kilometres around it—forever. The valley is still accessible for hikers and skiiers and is enjoyed and respected among it’s visitors.

An incredible place with an inspiring story!