Earlier this summer during the inclement weather, instead of braving the elements as much as I usually do, I resorted to some of my old sketches and worked from those in a warm and cozy studio.
One of these was from Clint Beek Recreation Area on Keogh Lake three summers ago.
The result was an acrylic on canvas painting that I was pleased with.
I knew I wanted to write about this painting and the very special recreation area that had inspired it, but I had not painted there since three years ago.
Last week, on a beautiful Saturday, I made the trip, mindful that I should pay attention to distances traveled for this article; after all I love to give my readers some idea of how to get to the places I enjoy.
This recreation area is so close to Port McNeill, it’s practically on their doorstep.
The spot is just 14 kms. from the Island Highway on a very well traveled gravel road which begins to open up a whole series of wonderful lakes, such as O’Connor — another recreation area — Three Isle, Maynard and Benson.
All of these are well marked with good signage.
The Clint Beek area road takes off to the left of the logging main that leads to these other lakes but is well marked.
It lies within one end of Keogh Lake and has a number of developed campsites as well as a swimming area with a beach and dock.
Within twenty minutes from my home I was at the site, among dozens of RVs and tents, a reminder that this was a Saturday.
There were squealing kids everywhere, running, jumping and swimming while watchful moms kept an eye out.
I made my way to where I had done the sketch three years ago and found, to my delight, that nothing had changed.
Every tree and log was in the very same place.
Now, that’s what I call progress; when you can leave nature alone to do what it does best. We are often too quick to develop it. Clint Beek Recreation Area remains reasonably serene and placid.
Children’s laughter hasn’t disturbed a thing!