TM8708 Harbinger 30×30 oil on panel

Symplocarpus foetidus, commonly known as skunk cabbage, is the first lush green plant signalling spring’s arrival at the pond. It shoots up from the wetlands with its large, furled leaves and seems to joyously shout Spring’s Here! I feel good whenever I see it, and I’ve been studying it for years. After a few practice sketches, I’m finally paying homage to one of my favorite wild plants with this portrait. Enjoy. Details below.

TM8708 Harbinger – detail from lower right with new growth and last season’s leaves

TM8708 Harbinger – close-up of symplocarpus foetides, commonly known as skunk cabbage, which grows abundantly in early spring wetlands