Nature Notes ~ Winter 2021

EarthKind

My love of art was rekindled many years ago when I was working in conservation. I wanted to help people understand the concept of biological diversity and how all life on our planet is connected through my paintings. On the same note, I recently read an article called, Listening With Open Hearts, about an indigenous Alaskan community that believes there is no separation between people and nature.

The author, Andrea Akall'eq Burgess, a tribal citizen of the Native Village of Kwinhagak, wrote about how members of her village respect and honor the natural environment. The article reminds us that indigenous people intuitively care for the land and all species because their survival still depends on it. They understand that nature provides sustenance for people, as well as beauty and food for our souls. When we really think about it, everything on Earth in some way traces back to a natural origin.

One Life One Home

​What I remember most about the article is Andrea's reference to people and nature as Earthkind. This is a beautiful way to describe ALL precious life on Earth. Earthkind is inclusive. The word describes a gentle, endearing feeling towards our planet and all life forms. So for EarthKind, let's continue to respect, care for, and conserve our beloved natural world.  

May there be peace on Earth. Goodwill to all sentient beings.

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Art Exhibit in Evergreen

The Center for the Arts in Evergreen is hosting the exhibition, You Belong Here, from November 18 through December 31. And I'm delighted to share that one of my originals, Home of Butterflies, is included in the show!

Sara Miller, CAE's Senior Director of Exhibitions & Education, wrote in one of the art center's invitations, "Yesterday afternoon, I finished hanging the member show in the gallery. I’m usually the first one in the office at CAE, and this morning, everything was quiet and dark. When I turned on the lights in the gallery, I was blown away by how beautiful the exhibition is!"

Home for Butterflies

​If you're in the Denver metro area and have a chance to attend the show, there are many amazing pieces from many wonderful artists on display. Please click here to view the CAE website for more information!

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New Painting Coming Soon!

Hopefully soon and in time for the spring edition of Nature Notes, I'll be sharing a brand new painting! ​Hint: the fibonacci spiral in pinecones and tree patterns in leaves. : )

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Conservation Corner

Do you want to live more lightly on the planet and still enjoy the giving season? How about making a gift to a loved one's favorite do-good charity in your friend or family member's honor! There are many wonderful for-purpose organizations out there doing incredible work to help animals and our natural world, such local land trusts, animal shelters, pet rescues, zoos, and conservation organizations.

I bet there are many wonderful organizations that come to mind! A few of my favorites are Mountain Area Land Trust, Vermont Center for Ecostudies, Adirondack Land Trust, Highlands Nature Sanctuary, Crane Mountain Valley Horse Rescue, Denver Dumb Friends League, Morris Animal Foundation, and The Nature Conservancy. Or do you have a creative in your life? A donation to the local arts center would be a truly meaningful gift!

What fun to be in the holiday spirit while honoring the passions of our friends and family! 

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Easy Stroll Along Bear Creek

The sound of flowing water always calms me down. It brings harmony and peace to the present moment. For my birthday this year, I escaped the hustle and bustle of the city for a quiet walk along Bear Creek. It was chilly that day and perfect weather for a stroll. Ice had begun to form on the more still areas of the creek that receive less sunlight during the shorter days of fall and winter. 

Near the end of my walk, I sat by the creek for awhile to reflect on the past year and breathe in the crisp, refreshing smell of the forest. Ahhhh...

​Being in nature gives me permission to just be for a little while. Without judgement. Without noise, rushing, or stress. Just be.

Thank you, Mother Nature. Thank you. ​

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Wishing you a peaceful winter season all nestled in nature.