Category: Lifestyle & Sketching

  • Sketches in Graphite – Inspired By Nature’s Majesty

    This graphite study captures the powerful yet graceful essence of the mountain lion, that elusive monarch of North American mountains and forests. With careful shading and judicious lines, the drawing conveys the muscularity, alertness and intensity present in these magnificent predators. Their penetrating gaze meets the viewer directly, reminding us of the wildness still present…

  • Embracing Beauty: Art as a Sanctuary

    In the midst of a world filled with turmoil and unrest, the pursuit of peace becomes an ever more pressing endeavor. As we navigate through the complexities of our daily lives, seeking solace and tranquility becomes paramount. In this quest, art emerges as a powerful medium, capable of providing refuge and respite from the chaos…

  • The Journey of an Artist: Embracing Growth, Challenges, and Celebrating Success

    The journey of an artist is a unique and fulfilling path filled with growth, challenges, and moments of celebration. Whether you’re just starting or have been creating art for years, here are some insights to help you navigate your artistic journey: Embrace the Learning Process: Art is a lifelong journey of learning and growth. Embrace…

  • Wings of Freedom: Artistic Inspiration and Second Chances

    In the realm of nature and wildlife, there are few moments as profound as witnessing the release of injured birds of prey back into the wild. Recently, I had the privilege of attending a raptor release event at the Carpenter Nature Center, organized by the esteemed University of Minnesota’s Raptor Center. This event not only…

  • Embracing the Harvest: Experiments With Small Oil Sketches

    I am excited to showcase my latest collection of small oil sketches, featuring a few specimens of a bountiful harvest of garden vegetables and the intriguing beauty of bracket fungus. As an artist, I find inspiration in the simple pleasures of life, and what better way to celebrate the changing seasons than by capturing the…

  • The Profound Benefits of Experiencing Art

    As an artist, I often get asked what compels me to create and share my work. But today, I’d like to reflect on what value artwork can provide from the other perspective—for the viewer and collector. Here are some of the deeply meaningful benefits art can offer us: Inspiration – Great art has the power…

  • The Beauty and Importance of Our National Parks

    As a naturalist and artist, I have always found immense inspiration in the natural beauty and diversity of our national parks. These protected public lands allow us to experience nature in all its grandeur, from the soaring mountains of Yosemite to the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone. Our national parks play a vital role not just…

  • “Sketching the Essence: Capturing the Grace and Power of the Mountain Lion”

    As an artist, sketching is an essential part of honing skills and capturing the essence of the subject. That’s why I wanted to dedicate this sketch to the graceful mountain lion, a creature that embodies both elegance and strength. With a pencil in hand, I embarked on a journey to capture the spirit of the…

  • The Artful Eye: Unlocking Creativity in Nature Walks with Photography

    Taking leisurely strolls surrounded by nature is a soothing way to unplug from life’s everyday hustle. But did you know that bringing a camera along on your walks can open up a world of creative benefits too? Photographing natural scenes and elements as you ramble can provide inspiration, hone artistic instincts, and renew your creative…

  • Cultivating Wondrous Wildlife Gardens

    As summer winds down, my thoughts turn to preparations for next year’s garden. As a painter of the natural world, gardening provides me endless inspiration and reminds me of the beauty and interconnectedness of all living things. I strive to create a little oasis that supports local wildlife and pollinators. In designing wildlife gardens, it’s…