The Art of Ecology
Building visual connections between people and nature.
Tag: nature
Interpreting Tree Rings
We know that in looking at a tree slice, we can count the rings to tell the age, but did you know that we can learn a LOT more than just age from the rings? What are Tree Rings? When you cut a slice of tree, you are left with what’s called a Tree Cookie. …
Peach Fuzz – Pantone’s 2024 Color of the Year in Nature
Hibiscus, orchids, and soft sunrises bring a soothing sort of cheer. The color of these natural scapes are so welcome, but what exactly is that color called? Pantone has selected Peach Fuzz, a soft, pinkish-orange hue to be the 2024 color of the year! PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz captures our desire to nurture ourselves and …
Who’s that knocking on my tree?
Throughout the year, we can hear the resounding “Rap-tap-tapping” of woodpeckers slamming their chisel-like beaks into the sides of trees, so why might we see more of them in autumn and winter? The primary reason is because there is a lack of foliage to get in the way of our sight! Many of our local …
Butterfly Wings & Their Function
I always love seeing the beauty of butterflies this time of year as they flit around from flower to flower! I love the vibrant orange of the Monarchs and Viceroys, the yellow of the Tiger Swallowtails, and the blue-ish spots of the Red-Spotted Purple. Colorful butterfly wings also have fascinating anatomy that helps them fly …
Sounds of Summer: Cicadas
Starting in July or August, you might hear some loud screeching or buzzing from the treetops. Don’t be scared! The cicadas, endemic to North America, have emerged and the adults are trying to attract mates through their “beautiful” screaming. What IS a Cicada?! Cicadas are true bugs, meaning that they have three body parts, three …
How Art & Nature Can Enhance Education
When we combine artistic mediums with environmental science topics, we can increase our knowledge about the natural world, and how we act as stewards of the ecosystems around us. WHY art is so beneficial to increasing our understanding, regardless of subject or topic? The Role of Art in Learning Styles Art, or something made via …
Feathruary 2023 Art Challenge
This past month I’ve been creating art as part of the #Feathruary2023 by @MischievousRedFox on Instagram. Illustrating birds is not only fun, and a great way for me to learn more about bird identifying characteristics, and sharing the finished piece is a good way to increase appreciation and respect for the bird world. Each piece …
Viva Magenta – Pantone’s 2023 Color of the Year in Nature
Hibiscus, orchids, and chrysanthemum blooms are always so vibrant and colorful. The color of these flowers are so striking, but what exactly is that color called? This year, Pantone selected Viva Magenta, a reddish hue to be the 2023 color of the year! Viva Magenta 18-750, vibrates with vim and vigor. It is a shade …
Sustainable Crafts: Part III
Looking for some zero-waste holiday decorations or gifts to give? Explore all-natural and sustainable crafts below for some ideas on ways to fill your time, stimulate the mind (and hands), give to others, and create something unique this winter season! This is part 3 of my “Eco-friendly” & sustainable art projects. You can find more …
A Behind the Scenes Look at my Studio
Life has changed a lot for me recently and my focus with The Art of Ecology has become more focused and purposeful. By combining creative, hands-on endeavors with environmental science, I can facilitate a sense of stewardship and responsibility for the environment in others. I do this through informal environmental education online, through social media, …
