Austin’s Greenbelt is a natural area that follows Barton Creek, with hiking trails that extend for about eight miles on either side. I hike sections of the trail regularly and it isn’t uncommon for me to spot a small snake squirming across the path as I approach. They are so fast and small that I typically see no more than a tail’s end as they slip into the grass.

I’ve been lucky enough to see this vibrant species of garter snake a few times; and became enchanted by its pattern and colors.

Interested, I looked up photos of and information about these small snakes. They are harmless to people, usually live near water, and like to eat worms, fish, and sometimes frogs. That orange stripe and those patterns are so beautiful, I had to paint it!

I decided to deconstruct the pattern a little, to make it more abstract.

When it came time to paint, I wanted to play with the color combinations and chose more complementary colors.

I decided to title it “Oh, Hello There!” after the feeling of surprise I get when I spot one of these beautiful snakes a few feet ahead of me on the trail.

Here’s to many more snake sighting (and may they be non-venomous)!