#2828 "Singleton Sanctuary Red Cedar in December"

#2828 "Singleton Sanctuary Red Cedar in December"
7x 5 inches oils on canvas panel 

I started this painting outside but quickly retreated to the Singleton Studio. It was warm and comfortable inside and only a few metres from the red cedar inspiration. 

Red cedars are important for wildlife within the Singleton Sanctuary. They are encouraged to grow wherever they can take root. Deer survive through a long winter by browsing on the lower branches. All kinds of birds find shelter in the dense growth and many even consume the small cones as if they were berries. 

Eastern red cedar is useful for windbreaks and hedges on tough, dry, limestone-based soils where little else grows. It rarely requires pruning but tolerates clipping so is sometimes used in ornamental gardens. Eastern red cedar wood is valued for its resistance to insects and rot. 

The red cedar tree is frequently referred to as the "Tree of Life" since its applications are so diverse and extensive. The cedar tree was also held very dear by the Ancient Egyptians who extracted its precious oils for the purposes of mummification. 

Virtually every part of the red cedar tree was used in some aspect of indigenous life - longhouses, canoes, totem poles, baskets, clothing, ropes, cooking utensils and medicines. 

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Warmest regards and keep your paddle in the water,

Phil Chadwick 

PS: Merry Christmas!