Graf
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Notes from the Woods

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The Opal Coast

the opal coast

Opal Inlet

Written by Mark

Born and raised in Detroit, c. 323 ppm CO2, Mark Graf is a Michigan photographer, naturalist, and diver whose muse is summoned by exploring the endless connections in nature; land, sea, and sky.

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9 Comments(s)

Monday, December 23, 2013

 

opal pictures

Sand island in Opal Bay is often used as a romantic getaway island.

Opal abstract photo

Warm temperate water rushes in from the coast through the Opal Inlet

I guess I never imagined going to this place until I saw what it was like.   Rich red desert sands border a lush coastline bordered with inviting blue water – what is not to like.   Despite being a developers dream land deal, the Opal Coast has remained largely untouched and unspoiled by encroachment, resorts, hotels, and cruise ship traffic.   It remains a bit of coastal wilderness.   With remote sand islands, and beaches for as far as the eye can see, it is amazing this place has remained a bit of a secret for so long.

This area is rich in underground hot springs and volcanic activity that contribute to its unique geological landscape.   The coastal areas are likely to be under threat of mining for deposits of carbonate-rich flourapatite.  Silica and oxygen mix along the coastlines creating unique spherical deposits easily observed on a clear day from the air.

opal photo abstract wall art

Tropical greenery separates the Opal coast from the inland red desert sands.

I am not sure I will ever get to go to the Opal Coast.  If it is as appealing on the ground as it looks from the sky, it is possible I could never leave.  At least for now, I can dream.

 

graf nature photo divider

this post is tagged with these subjects, you are invited to explore and wander …

inspired by stone | rock abstracts | stonescape
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9 Comments

  1. Nature Images
    Nature Images on Thursday, March 20, 2014 at 2:30 AM

    Very cool and natural images

  2. Paul Grecian
    Paul Grecian on Monday, January 6, 2014 at 2:39 PM

    Very cool images! Compositionally they really instill a sense that you are working from an aerial view and you’ve also achieved a dimensionality that is very convincing.

    • Mark
      Mark on Friday, January 10, 2014 at 6:40 PM

      Paul – thanks a lot. That is always what I try to picture in my head anyway. I often wonder if they come across that way though.

  3. Guy Tal
    Guy Tal on Wednesday, December 25, 2013 at 10:30 AM

    These are absolutely fascinating, Mark. What a wonderful exploration into the fractal beauty of the natural world.

    • Mark
      Mark on Thursday, December 26, 2013 at 8:25 PM

      Hey Guy – thanks so much. I appreciate the visit and remarks.

  4. Steve Gingold
    Steve Gingold on Wednesday, December 25, 2013 at 6:44 AM

    These are wonderful abstracts, Mark. I’ll be looking forward to your 2013 collection. I am not sure if I will put one together but maybe you’ll inspire me.

    • Mark
      Mark on Thursday, December 26, 2013 at 8:25 PM

      Hi Steve, thanks a lot. I may not inspire you – but how about I just prod and nag you to do it! 🙂

  5. David Leland Hyde (@PhilipHydePhoto)
    David Leland Hyde (@PhilipHydePhoto) on Tuesday, December 24, 2013 at 2:54 PM

    Wow, Mark, these are beautiful. The small semi-abstract is really your strong suit, among others. Looking forward to your top photographs of the year if you plan to participate. Happy Holidays!

    • Mark
      Mark on Tuesday, December 24, 2013 at 3:14 PM

      Thanks David! Yes, I am working on the 2013 summary now actually. May post just after Christmas.