“The first time I saw “Derek’s work was at a local restaurant in Missoula, Montana.  Immediately I knew his art would be perfect above the fireplace in our home on the nearby Bitterroot River. After spending some time looking at the various paintings on Derek’s website, I came up with an idea to incorporate our home into a painting of a Bitterroot brown trout.

I contacted Derek to discuss a commissioned piece and my idea.  He was totally receptive as we collaborated over the phone.  I sent him a few photos of our house and the space where the painting would be mounted and we were on the way.  A few weeks later Derek sent me an approval sketch and a few weeks after that the painting was complete.  What was really cool about the process is Derek would text me photos of the progress he was making on the painting, so we were actually able to see our painting come to life.

We couldn’t be happier with the end result, what we call “Missoula Riverfront Retreat – Brown”. The vibrant colors contrast perfectly with the natural stone and woodwork making a perfect focal point in our living area.   Everyone who has seen the painting in person is amazed.  Photo’s don’t do it justice!

Thank you Derek and Janell!”

The Lind Family