Clallam Bay, Olympian Range, Straits of [Juan de] Fuca (from Sketchbook X) 1885

William Trost Richards captured this graphite rendering of Clallam Bay, the Olympian Range, and the Straits of Juan de Fuca in a sketchbook. This tranquil seascape possesses a captivating sense of spatial depth achieved through the delicate shading of the Olympian mountains. Mountains, throughout history, have stood as potent symbols, often embodying ideals of steadfastness. Yet, when depicted alongside water, they introduce a dialogue between immutability and fluidity, reflecting a fundamental tension in human existence. The mountain's symbolism echoes across cultures, appearing as sacred sites in ancient Greece and as representations of enlightenment in Eastern traditions. Over time, our interpretation of mountains has evolved from seeing them as formidable barriers to sources of inspiration and spiritual awakening. Their peaks invite introspection. As you stand before this sketch, allow yourself to ponder this dance between solidity and ephemerality and how Richards invites us to reflect on nature's enduring power and our place within its vastness.