A harmonious gathering of animals found in New York forests. The setting is a rustic, hand-built treehouse, positioned within the tree canopy and overlooking distant mountains that frame the Hudson River Valley.The composition follows the tradition of the Peaceable Kingdom, popular in the 19th century, where natural predators and prey coexist in serene harmony.

A young girl with sun-kissed hair wearing a Woodstock tie dye skirt stands on the stairs with an expression of contentment and gentle authority. Around her, a complex menagerie is assembled in the treehouse and throughout the woods. Every animal looks relaxed, creating an atmosphere of idealized tranquility.

Several of the animals, lower right, were added by children who visited an art show where I was demonstrating painting. I handed the brush to the kids and encouraged them to contribute.