Painting “November Snow” – Cordova, Alaska in Watercolor

There’s something magical about the first snowfall of the year in Cordova, Alaska. It’s quiet. It’s peaceful. And it turns our small town into a postcard scene almost overnight. That’s what inspired me to create November Snow, a watercolor painting that captures this fleeting moment.

As an artist living in Cordova, I’m constantly surrounded by landscapes that beg to be painted. But this piece was different — it wasn’t just about a pretty winter view. It was about the feeling of walking through town on that first snowy morning, hearing the muffled crunch underfoot, and seeing the familiar streets transformed.

I began with a light pencil sketch to map the buildings and snowy street, then layered transparent washes of blues and grays to create depth in the sky. The snow itself was left mostly untouched paper, with delicate shadows painted to give it weight and texture.

The scene is both still and full of life — a reminder that beauty often comes quietly, without announcement.

Whether you’re from Alaska, visited here once, or just love cozy winter scenes, November Snow is my invitation to step into this quiet Cordova morning with me.

You can view and purchase the November Snow fine art print here and bring a piece of Cordova’s winter magic into your home.

Paper
Fluid 100 Cold Press 6x8in 300lb

Watercolor
Daniel Smith Extra Fine Watercolors: Chinese White, Titanium White, Lunar Black, Neutral Tint, Manganese Blue Hue, Undersea Green, Green Gold, Raw Umber, Quinacridone Magenta
Coliro Pearlcolors: Silver Pearl M1200-10

Brushes
Winsor & Newton Professional Water Colour Sable One Stroke 13mm ½”
Silver Black Velvet 6
Silver Black Velvet 2

Credits
Artist: Shulammite Reece
Photo reference taken by artist.