With Henry

The Adirondack Mountains are both my subject and my sanctuary. Through my work in watercolor with a tiny dry brush, and photography, I strive to capture not only the beauty of these breathtaking landscapes, but also the emotions they inspire—wonder, peace, adventure, and connection.

My greatest source of inspiration is my black and tan coonhound, Henry. Whether he is howling from a mountain summit singing his song, or sitting quietly beside me as the sun warms us, Henry is a constant reminder of simply being where your feet are. His unmistakable voice has become the heart of my work and the inspiration behind a book I am working on. Through Henry's adventures, I hope to introduce children and families to the extraordinary places within the Adirondack Park, of being in the moment, encouraging curiosity, exploration, and a lifelong appreciation for nature.

My landscapes are rooted in real places—beloved mountain peaks, quiet lakes, scenic trails, and places in the park where families can make memories. I try to capture the light, the stillness of a forest, and the joy of reaching a summit with those you love. Then I get to relive it all while I am home in my studio with my watercolors.

Whether I am painting, photographing, or writing, my goal is the same—to preserve the beauty of the Adirondacks and inspire others to experience them for themselves. I believe the outdoors has the power to bring families together, nurture resilience, spark a child's imagination, and create memories that last a lifetime.

For me, creating art is more than depicting landscapes—it is a way of honoring the places that have brought healing, perspective, and gratitude into my life. Every painting, photograph, and story is an invitation to slow down, breathe, explore, and discover the enduring magic of the Adirondacks, often with Henry leading the way.

– Charisa Wolf

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Charisa Wolf is a registered nurse and splits her time between Jay, NY, and Chester, NJ, with her family and 3 dogs.