Otter Creek

The Story

A river otter cuts across a dark creek, head and back just breaking the surface, the arc of its wake trailing behind. A second otter dives just behind it, soft and out of focus in the dark water. The water and far bank fall away into deep shadow, which pushes all the attention onto the otter's wet face and the soft light on its fur. It is a low, quiet angle, the kind you get only from down at the water's level.

The Location

River otters work the tidal creeks and rivers of the Chesapeake year round, hunting fish and blue crabs along the shorelines. They are shy and easy to miss, often gone beneath the surface before you register that they were there.

Artist's Perspective

Chris Michael takes a documentary approach to wildlife, holding still and letting an animal move through the frame on its own terms. Here the dark surround is left intact so the otter reads as a warm shape in the shadow.

Curator's Recommendation

A moody, low-key piece for a den, hallway, or study. The dark tones give it weight on a wall and make it a strong companion to other close-water wildlife scenes.

Print Quality

Archival-Quality Canvas, Made in the USA.

Every Chesapeake Focus print is produced on archival-grade poly-cotton canvas using UL GREENGUARD GOLD certified inks — water resistant, fade resistant, and anti-yellowing. Each canvas is hand-stretched over FSC-certified, kiln-dried stretcher bars that are knot-free and warp-free. Finished with your choice of hardwood floater frame in matte black, white, brown, or natural. Ready to hang right out of the box.