Still Standing: The Story Behind My Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse Painting
There’s something about lighthouses that captivates me—the way they endure through storms, standing tall against time and the elements. My latest painting, Still Standing, is a tribute to that strength. At 24x30 inches, this piece captures the Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse, a historic Michigan landmark that has long fascinated me.
Inspiration and Connection
The Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse is more than just a structure; it tells a story of resilience. Sitting on the shores of Lake Superior, its weathered wood and rustic character reflect years of exposure to wind, water, and time. When I set out to paint this lighthouse, I wanted to honor that history—to capture the feeling of standing before it, taking in its quiet strength.
The inspiration for this piece came from a family vacation, where we took a boat tour to see shipwrecks & other landmarks on Lake Superior. Seeing the lighthouse from the water was an incredible experience—it felt almost frozen in time. That moment stayed with me, and I knew I had to translate it into a painting.
The Creative Process
This painting was a challenge, but in the best way. Unlike some of my other works that incorporate fluid techniques, Still Standing was created entirely with brushwork. Every stroke was intentional, building layers of texture and depth to bring the lighthouse to life.
One of the most intricate aspects of this painting was the process of laying the trees. It started with a base layer to establish depth, followed by foliage and leaves to create density. After that, I worked in shadows to bring dimension, then added highlights to capture the way light filters through the forest. Though I didn’t paint individual trees in detail, the layered approach gives the illusion of them, making the landscape feel rich and natural.
A Glimpse into History
Constructed in 1868, the Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse was built to guide vessels through the channel east of Grand Island into Munising Harbor. Its wooden frame and square tower are characteristic of the period's lighthouse design. Despite being decommissioned in 1908, the lighthouse has remained a silent sentinel on Lake Superior's shores.
Over the years, the structure faced neglect and the harsh realities of time and weather. In the 1990s, concerns grew that the lighthouse might be lost forever. The local community rallied, and by 1999, the East Channel Lighthouse Rescue Committee was formed to preserve this historic beacon. Through dedicated efforts, including the construction of a seawall to combat erosion, the lighthouse stands today as a testament to community spirit and a tangible link to the maritime history of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
More Than a Painting
For me, Still Standing is more than just an image—it’s a reflection of persistence, of staying strong despite the storms that pass through life. That’s something I think we all relate to in one way or another.
If this painting speaks to you, feel free to reach out. And if you’ve ever visited the Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse, I’d love to hear about your experience!
