Creating Art in a National Park

In June 2016, I was the official artist-in-residence for Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks (the first one ever, they told me!) The residency was all volunteer and I provided all the materials for the program. I donated the original art produced there to the parks as well. The purpose of my residency was to create artwork and materials that could be used for programs in the parks now and in the future. I also created artwork that I presented at the end of my stay that highlighted many of the wonderful little things of nature that also exist among the giant majestic sequoia trees. Judging by the enthusiastic response of all those who came and participated on presentation day I think it was a success.

During my week in Sequoia -- I actually only had five days to work because of travel and the presentation day -- I created numerous photo-op masks, coloring pages, and several watercolor and acrylic paintings and lots of thumbnail sketches. I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to create among by the peacefulness of nature in a historic, secluded rustic cabin. My only regret? Not having more time there to create even more artwork.

Thanks to all the great people at SEKI for the invitation to create art in the park!

UPDATE: In October 2017 the Jr. Ranger Book for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks won a 1st Place Interpretive Media Award for Site Publication from The National Association for Interpretation (NAI.) I illustrated the activities and spot art for interior pages. Read more about it by clicking here.

And here are a couple of watercolor sketches of Kings Canyon.

Above are other pieces of artwork created for SEKI including Jr. Ranger Book artwork.  In 2017, the book and the creative team that put it together was awarded First Place for Site Publications by the National Association for Interpretation (NAI). More info here. I have also created artwork for Pinnacles National Park and Grand Canyon National Park as well.