All prints are handmade by Peter Ralston on archival rag paper with an archival ink set.

Small Matted Prints - This collection is printed on 8.5 x 11 inch sheets, matted, ready to be framed.

Sightings - This limited edition (LE) collection of 64 images is from Peter's 1997 book, Sightings. This edition is limited to 25 prints of each image plus five artist proofs (AP). They are printed on 17 x 22 inch sheets.

The Master Prints - This limited edition (LE) print is limited to 50 prints of this image plus ten artist proofs (AP). They are printed on 24 x 36 inch sheets.

Custom sizes of this image are available by special request. 

The story behind Winter

I was driving down around Owl’s Head when I saw this dooryard which pretty much says it all about winter in “old” Maine. There aren’t too many pumps left in front yards, and you sure don’t see too much cod hung out to dry anymore.

As I beheld the scene I was seeing - and dreaming - into the past, and this image is a statement of my respect for those who have gone before. 

I know Maine winters, and as far as making nostalgic, Currier & Ives-like images of winters here on the coast, well, winter is just plain not like that. It’s hard and it’s tough…but, of course, nothing like it was in the past. Today, well, it’s absolutely cushy by comparison. Sure the darkness and cold still take their toll to some extent, but we have it so very easy now. 

There was, then, a simplicity that we, perhaps, lack today. In a world that gets busier and noisier and faster and more connected all the time, I look at this and it slows me down…it helps me collect my thoughts, take a deep and centered breath and quietly tip my hat to those who live here.

I don’t know the people who live here, but I bet they make the finest kind of chowder.