I always new that somehow going to Alaska was going to be more meaningful than just another person going there.  After all people go by the proverbial boat load everyday in cruise ships and ferry’s and working vessels and yachts.  Most just see trees and rocks and water.  Maybe they get to see a whale or perhaps a bear and while some are impressed others are fearful but neither usually understands the delicate balance that these noble animals walk on the land and the sea.  They don’t see the salmon habitat being destroyed upstream that is weakening the salmon run and starving the bear and the orca.  The over fishing, the logging, the erosion and pollution that is the decay that eventually will rot the foundations of the last great temperate old growth rain forest.  

Studying the route and learning about the land and sea has opened my eyes as never before to the importance of standing up to the issues that the whole northwest faces.  I’m going to travel the length of the great inside passage and I believe it is my duty to give back something.  My gift is going to be to treasure this place by photographing it and sharing it with you.  My images and stories will give you personal perspective.  And I will develop a body of work that I can take to the community far after the trip is complete.  I look forward to giving shows and speaking when I return.  I am compiling a list of organizations that are fighting to protect the interests of this unique habitat.  I will do my best to make their missions known and the need for them apparent and accessible.  I believe I can make a difference.

An expedition like this is not easy for is it cheap.  I’m going to take off four months of work.  I’ve put everything I have into the boat and camera and computer equipment and I still need more.  I’m looking for support from you and those you know who believe that my mission is important.  I’m going to be creating a donation program soon with rewards  at different denomination levels.  I am also selling art from my portfolio of past work.  Purchasing art will directly support my ability to do this work.  At this moment I need to raise ten thousand dollars.  Thats a lot of pictures.  So please if you can, and would like to help and would like a beautiful piece of art, take a look at my Northwest gallery titled San Juan.  These images were taken at the head of the inside passage in the San Juan islands where I lived for over a year.  These images look amazing on metal or on canvas as well as in photographic prints or on fun items like mugs and book markers.  Whatever you choose it will be appreciated and will help.  If you have questions about how to order or what would look best don’t hesitate to email me or just call.

Please subscribe to my blogs, like my Facebook page and you’ll be sure to not miss updates on my voyage and amazing images and stories about the inside passage to come.  

Fair winds,

Alan