By Teresa Smith, Journal contributor

I travel to remote islands. I visit forests and mossy coves. I go where there are fewer humans. The wilder and older the forest, the more there is to see and feel.

There is a spirit to the place. “I” am in the woods, but it seems it’s not just me. Sometimes I feel quiet nudges, and sometimes a voice loud enough that I look over my shoulder and the hair stands up on the back of my neck. There is a lot going on out here in these islands. What is it that I am sensing? Is it the trees? The ferns? The foxes in the undergrowth? Is it something unseen? I am curious, and I think it is all of those. And the more I listen and look, the more I see, hear and feel.

This summer, I have been an Artist in Residence with the Bureau of Land Management. Our islands are a national monument and rightly so. There is so much beauty here. Mountains, beaches, tide pools and the beautiful trees, mosses and ferns. And then there are the foxes, deer and whales passing along the shoreline. All of this is awe-inspiring and so lovely.

I travel to some of the more remote islands and protected lands. I walk, explore, photograph and paint. Then, back in the studio, I call in all those same sensations and do my best to memorialize the place. The idea of spirit-infused comes to mind. I remember the light, the colors and the call of the birds. I remember the energy and the spirit within. I remember the awe I felt and how these islands are a portal to gratitude, community and healing.

And to those of you who come to visit or those who live here full-time. I am happy you get to experience these islands and appreciate all that is here. I hope you take a moment and sit among the trees. See if you feel the spirit of the place and the sanctuary that is here. And if you see the fairies, call me right away.