The Virgin River reflects the early morning copper color of the towering cliffs that line its course along the floor of Zion Canyon. The image acquires much of its character through a variety of contrasting textures. The rippling water suggests liquid copper, while the textured rock strewn banks provide contrast and define the shape of the river. I also contrast the harsh texture of the bare bush that anchors the image at the bottom to the soft green textures of the trees in the distance. The curtain of red rocks descending from the top edge is heavily textured as well, and echoes the copper color of the water.