Pico de Orizaba |
Finally, twenty-three years after I traveled to Mexico for the first time, to begin my life as an artist, I reached the destination I'd set myself on that journey: the 18,500ft volcano Pico de Orizaba. In October 1988, I had no plans to actually climb this peak, but the surrounding area "the Switzerland of Mexico," seemed as though it would be the perfect place to get away from the distractions of home, explore, learn Spanish and paint. However, the experience of driving in Mexico (in a car that threatened to break down at any moment), was more of an adventure than I'd bargained for. Arriving in the State of Guanajuato (four hours north of Mexico city) I decided to not push my luck any further, and the artist colony of San Miguel de Allende became home for the winter. Twenty-two years past before I finally made my way to the town of Orizaba to see this volcano with my own eyes . In 2010 however, Orizaba remained seductively elusive (See story in last update) and she haunted my imagination for yet another year. Nevertheless, I was fortunate enough to pay Orizaba a second visit and, this time, scale the Jalapa glacier to stand at the crater's edge. |
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As I made my way down the slopes of Orizaba, I hoped that my Muse would continue to inspire me in my work, as she had done, unfailingly, since speaking to me through the photograph above in 1988. This image was published in a Sunset travel guide that I came across earlier that year, and the moment I saw it, I knew I must travel to Mexico. It took much longer than I thought it would to actually get to Orizaba though, and the story of the original 'misadventure,' the reason I didn't get there for more than twenty-two years, will be posted soon. This photograph of Orizaba is credited to a James Griffin, but neither the current publisher of Sunset, or another photographer I located (of the same name) knew the whereabouts of the person who captured this evocative image. Since I wasn't successful in my search, I though perhaps, if I posted the picture here, that someone might eventually point me in the right direction.
I'd like to thank Craig Van Hoy (above right) for going that extra mile (or two) and taking good care of my friends and I as we made our respective summit bids. If you like to climb with Craig, in Mexico, the United States or elsewhere, see GoTrek at: www.GoTrek.com
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A special thank you to Arnold and Carlos (above) who took care of us the rest of the time, and saw to it that I made a speedy recovery (after Izta) for the ascent of Orizaba. Arnold was the most informed and engading guide that I've had the pleasure to meet - on any of my travels. If you are planning to see Mexico City and environs, I'd recommend you touch base. Drop me a line for contact info.
Brian and Ken: It was a pleasure climbing with you, and passing the time in Mexico. Hasta luego amigos. |
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