Day 06: Snowbird

7 Day Wildlife Sketch Challenge!

Wild one,

I want to talk a little about connection today, because as my journey continues I find, evermore, that connection is playing a larger and larger role. 

When I speak of connection, I am actually imagining the unseen web of mycelial networks beneath a forest of trees and plants, the way that network acts as a means to communicate between different tree and plant persons, to support and harmonise. 

Much like the neural networks in our own brains and hearts. 

Something that has become abundantly clear to me is that connection is the thread that weaves through every aspect of your artistic practice.

It is the invisible force that binds you to your wildlife subjects, to the tools of your trade, to the wild world around you, and to the vibrant community of like-minded souls who share your passion for creativity. And when you draw upon the power of connection in conjunction with curiosity and compassion, you unlock the door to sustainable creative processes that support long-term growth and fulfilment.

We cannot exist outside of our creativity. 

Our creativity cannot exist outside of us. At the very least we are deeply connected to our ability to create, to what we create, to how we create.

But this practice can be soooo much more than that if we crack ourselves open a little wider and allow connection in all its myriad facets permeate our experience, our understanding, and our joy.

Let's begin by exploring the concept of connection in relation to your wildlife subjects.

Whether you're capturing the majestic beauty of wildlife in your artwork or expressing the untamed essence of your own wild animal body, cultivating a deep sense of connection is essential.

Subject

It's about more than just observing your subject from a reference—it's about immersing yourself in their world, feeling their heartbeat as if it were your own, their strength, their agility, their power, and allowing their spirit to speak to yours through the pigment on the end of your pencil or brush.

When you approach your subject with reverence and respect, you forge a bond that transcends mere observation, allowing you to capture their essence with authenticity and integrity. You will hear me talk about this all the time in my lessons - connecting to your subject by embodying them. You are taking them into your own body through one of your senses - sight - but you can choose to use other senses as well to strengthen that connection, and get curious about what it might be like to not just see and touch them, but to be them.

Tools

Similarly, connection to your tools is vital in nurturing your creative process. Your tools are not just instruments—they are extensions of your creativity, conduits through which your wild heart finds expression. Take the time to familiarise yourself with your tools, to understand their unique qualities and quirks, and to develop a symbiotic relationship with them that allows you to channel your innermost thoughts and emotions into a reality that your mind envisions. When you view your tools not as mere objects, but as partners in your creative journey, you unlock a world of possibilities and potential that fuels your growth and evolution as an artist.

This wild world

But perhaps the most profound connection of all is the one you share with the wild world of which you are a part - not apart from. From the tiniest insect to the mightiest mountain, every living being is interconnected, woven together in the intricate tapestry of life. When you embrace your place within this web of existence, you tap into a wellspring of inspiration and creativity that knows no bounds. However you may be able, I encourage you to take time to immerse yourself in nature, to feel the earth beneath your feet, the wind upon your skin, and the song of the birds in your heart. Allow the beauty and wonder of the natural world to infuse your art with vitality and depth, and watch as your creativity blossoms like a wildflower in bloom.

Each other

We also need the vital connection to a community of like-minded creatives - people who know exactly where you are coming from. As artists, we are not meant to walk this path alone. Surround yourself with fellow seekers, kindred spirits who understand the highs and lows of the creative journey, and who lift you up when you stumble and cheer you on when you soar. Share your triumphs and challenges, your dreams and fears, and celebrate the unique gifts and perspectives that each member brings to the table. In the embrace of community, you find solace, support, and inspiration to fuel your creative fire.

You, wild one

Lastly, but certainly not least, is the connection to your own courageous, rebellious soul and the innate wisdom within. Trust in the whispers of your wild heart, the stirrings of your soul, and the guidance of your intuition as you navigate the twists and turns of your artistic path. Listen to the call of your wild spirit, the voice that urges you to break free from convention, to “colour outside the lines”, and to dance to the rhythm of your own wild drum. Embrace your uniqueness, your quirks, your passions, and let them shine brightly through your art, illuminating the world with the light of your creativity.

Embrace connection in all its forms as you nurture your creative journey.

Cultivate a deep sense of reverence and respect for your wildlife subjects, your tools, the natural world, your community, and, most importantly, yourself.

Draw upon the power of connection in conjunction with curiosity and compassion, and watch as your creative processes unfold with grace and purpose, supporting your long-term growth and fulfillment.

Remember, you are never alone on this journey. You are part of something greater, something wild and wonderful beyond imagination. Embrace it, cherish it, and let it guide you as you create from the depths of your wild, untamed heart.

With love and encouragement (and a whole bunch of cheering you on!),

Snowbird

Image by Jack Bulmer from Pixabay

https://pixabay.com/photos/bird-snowbird-perched-small-bird-5699869/

PS: Have I got some news for you!

My comprehensive seven week wildlife art masterclass is now open! I only open this up twice a year, so we can work intensively as a small group on using lots of different supplies to make wildlife art - AND - become the most confident, curious, and compassionate artist we can become.

You can find out more here: