This ground-hugging perennial, the White Mountain Avens, thrives in rocky barren areas, alpine meadows, and ridges. Do not be fooled by this plant's small statue as it has been described as a "pioneer plant". Being among the first plants to appear where vegetation can grow, they are adept at taking nitrogen out of the air and then producing it as ammonia into the soil. This achievement allows other plants to grow, as well. This Mountain Avens’ lookout displays a vastness for the eye to see. Yet, the small way it supports other vegetation to flourish creates small ripples throughout. How far can those ripples go? Perhaps by supporting one another even in little ways, we can create a big difference.

In the spirit of reconciliation, I acknowledge these wild spaces are the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina, the Îyâxe Nakoda Nations, the Métis Nation (Region 3), and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta. Much gratitude as I experience the beauty of these places and am inspired to create artwork celebrating them.