The Art of Connection

Welcome to California Nature Art!

It’s easy to say, “slow down and enjoy nature,” but it’s not so simple.

How to do it?

Art is the answer.

What?! No way, you may say. I can’t even draw a stick figure.

That’s okay.

Stick with me (puns intended) and you’ll learn how to draw and/or paint nature in your voice.

Let’s start right there: Voice.

Sing your favorite song out loud. Hum a tune. Open up your lungs.

That’s one aspect of voice, the sounds we make. Voice also comes from expressing what we see around us in various ways. Art has a voice. The question becomes: are you afraid of finding your artistic voice?

And why?

Ouch. Dig deep, go to your roots.

Hard to do, right?

In the above canvas, I had painted over a messed-up picture. My new canvas was primed with gold and black paints swirled together, and being my impulsive self, I left a heart at the bottom.

Later, I sketched out the image of the redwoods and their interconnected roots, realizing that at the heart of everything is the heart. Sometimes, it’s hidden, invisible in the soil, but the heart is still there. We don’t always have to show it, especially as we’re learning to find our voice.

So if you can, then go for a walk around your neighborhood or favorite outdoor place, or even sit outside on your porch. Look at the world around you, breathe in and breathe out, then place your hand over your heart. Sing your favorite tune.

Close your eyes (if you’re in a safe place) and see what images come to light.

When you’re ready, say thank to the world around you, and return to your creative space (usually the kitchen table for me). Once there, forget about perfection and paint and/or sketch what you saw in your mind’s eyes.

And sing, keep singing as you create.

Your artistic voice will come to life.

Sure, it won’t be perfect, and you don’t have to show it to others yet.

But, one day, you will be ready, until then keep making art.

Disclaimer: My writing is NOT medical advice.

If you need help, then please reach out to someone in the medical field or a non-profit that focuses on mental health.

Here’s a wonderful landing spot — To Write Love on Her Arms