Artist Statement: Nature stands still taking a breath, it pauses, and the world slows down. Frozen in place, the world still grumbles, and the earth calls for patience. Winter has arrived, as it so often does through each individual snowflake.

Beauty falling from clouds through the sky, light dances through ice crystals; the grey sky is illuminated.

Winter winds ski down snow-covered hills while frost graces the faces of those willing to venture outside to observe the wintery parade. A blush of colour spreads across their cheeks as they are kissed by the cold. The world is wrapped in a blanket, and nature sings a lullaby that calls for rest, reminding us to stop, take time and wait.

The pandemic has offered a similar pause—a chance for us to take a breath, but also to be mindful of where that breath is being taken. Just as there is an end to winter, there is hope there will be an end to the restrictions and isolation. —Heidi Hepner