Capturing the Essence of Outdoor Hockey on Canvas – Skating on Frozen Lakes

There’s something exhilarating about skating and playing hockey outdoors—especially on a glacial lake at the base of the Rocky Mountains. The crisp air, the sound of blades cutting through natural ice, and the solitude of nature make it a magical experience. Sometimes referred to as the outdoor rink and pond hockey. Over the years, I’ve painted several pieces inspired by the joy of skating outdoors. It’s a subject that has captivated me, perhaps because, as a Vancouver Islander, I rarely get to experience it myself. If we’re lucky, we might get a few days of thin ice on a farmer’s field, but nothing like the frozen expanses of Canada’s interior. Capturing the essence of outdoor hockey on canvas, takes observation and imagination.

For those lucky enough to live near the Rocky Mountains—whether in Canada or the USA—this winter pastime is more than just a sport. Hockey on outdoor lakes and ponds is a tradition that connects people to the landscape and each other.

My latest painting captures the essence of this experience. It shows a young boy lacing up his hockey skates while sitting on the ice, just inside the crease of the goaltender’s net. A black rubber puck rests beside him, while his hockey stick stands upright, buried in the snow, ready for action. In the background, snowy mountain peaks rise into the distance, and the golden light of late afternoon bathes the scene. It’s a moment of peaceful solitude, a late-day skate on a frozen lake that he has all to himself.

This imagery brings to mind Wayne Gretzky’s stories of his childhood, where he was always the first on the outdoor rink and the last to leave. His passion for hockey was innate—an unshakeable part of who he was. I can relate to that sense of drive. As an artist, painting has always been my constant companion. It’s as much a part of me as my own arm, inseparable from my identity.

I hope this painting takes you back to those carefree moments of childhood—or perhaps inspires you to lace up your skates and hit the ice. Outdoor hockey is more than a game; it’s a celebration of winter, community, and the joy of simple pleasures. Learn more about this painting here.