When all the right conditions are in place, it's possible to witness those precious moments when nature shines forth in masterly fashion. That moment when we're spectators, and ambivalent about what we should do; capture the scene on camera, or simply live fully in the moment and enjoy it while it lasts. You guessed it, option number one turned out to be a much wiser choice for me to make this painting!

My creation bears the same name as this magical, fleeting moment in the day that I love so much: "Golden hour". I was walking along the paths of the magnificent Forestiers-de-Saint-Lazare nature park, when the sun began to close in on the horizon. A succession of visual changes begins in the landscape: the intensity of direct light is reduced, giving way to a warm, diffused light. Shadows lengthen and colors temporarily take on a golden hue.

It's as if nature wants to stop time for a few moments, in the hope of showing us its most beautiful side. Every bit of vegetation touched by the rays is suddenly highlighted, illuminated as if it were the focal point of a show, displaying its full potential. The forest takes on a luminous appearance, giving off a captivating, fairytale atmosphere.
 
I'm always fascinated by how ambient lighting can change our perception of what we see. This same forest at night, from the same vantage point, would probably look mysterious and perhaps even frightening to me. Every rustle that was once sweet music to my ears during the day, would surely become a source of stress at night.

So, the next time you witness a beautiful golden hour scene, take the time to look around you, and you might see things differently!