The Wave’s swirling ribbons of colour were created by eroding forces of wind and water that carved out this area 190 million years ago.  Because of its geological uniqueness and fragility, you may only gain access to this area via a permit system.  Only 64 people per day are allowed in the area (48 of these permits are granted 3 months in advance and 16 of these are granted the day before through a lottery system).  That being said, it is extremely difficult to be able to view these beautiful rock formations.  If you are lucky enough to secure a permit, it is a 6 mile round trip hike to get to The Wave and you must do so using a map or GPS system since there is no defined trail.

When I made the decision to visit Arizona for a second time, it was too late to try to get a permit, so this geological wonder still remains an elusive destination for me.  However, just like Antelope Canyon, its vibrant bands of colours and patterns of lines call to me in a way that no other element of nature does.  

I began a painting of The Wave based on a compilation of various stock photos as inspiration and a way of manifesting my second Arizona trip.  I was particularly drawn to photos of The Wave facing the southern entrance.  There is often water that collects at the mouth of the entrance and makes for surreal reflections of the cliffs and surrounding rock edges.  The glass-like reflection of the sky also lends an expansive feel to the already all-encompassing scenery.  This provided a new opportunity for me as a painter as I haven’t painted a lot of reflections.  The subtle blurred edges and shifts of colour and value in the reflections were exciting and challenging to paint.

What captivated me the most about this area of The Wave was the diagonal leading lines on both the left and right of the composition that drew my eye in like a magnet.  It makes you feel like you are entering a sacred area of the Earth that few people get to see and experience first hand.  The rock formation at the centre rises up like a golden nugget and entices you forward to see what lies beyond these fiery entrance walls.  

It’s hard to explain why I am so enamoured with the sandstone formations of Arizona, especially The Wave.  There is, of course, the undeniable beauty of the landscape but there is also a deep spiritual presence and knowing that transcends the many photos of this area.  When I look at these images and now my own painting, I feel a profound sense of peace, awe, and wonder.  And these feelings remind me of the awesomeness of Mother Nature, the wisdom of the Earth, and the eternal presence of God.  I feel grounded and alive in their wake.