For as long as humans have been creating, nature has been one of the most treasured sources of inspiration. When I find my creative energy low, connecting to nature is the quickest way to recharge. Here are 10 simple ways to connect to nature with art.
“An artist must possess Nature. He must identify himself with her rhythm, by efforts that will prepare the mastery which will later enable him to express himself in his own language.” Henri Matisse
10 Simple Ways to Connect to Nature with Art:
1. Go for a walk or hike with a sketchbook.
I love this one because it can be done almost anywhere and by everyone. Just get out and walk, take your sketchbook and supplies of choice. I like to bring a pencil because there is zero set up, it is easy, and drawing is my first love. If you are looking for sketchbook supplies there is a list here with links for shopping.
2. Sit quiet.
If you are like me, this is easier said than done. Pausing, observing, taking in before you work is a discipline but well worth the effort. I find it helpful to take some hot tea or kombucha with me.
3. Create land art.
Andy Goldsworthy is an sculptor and photographer who uses natural materials to create amazing work. You can view some of his work here. One of my favorite land art activities is creating a mandala because it can be done with any materials you can find, and it is fun to do with little ones.
4. Use senses other than sight.
Try to observe with all of your senses not just your eyes. Often times if I am having trouble being present in the current moment or place, just closing my eyes and tuning in to other senses will bring me to a place of connection which helps me create from a place of ease.
“I close my eyes in order to see.” Paul Gaugin
5. Do quick contour line drawings.
A quick contour line drawing allows me to study details and relationships in nature in careful attention. Following the outline of a branch and navigating the intersection of trunks and leaves and other branches visually alerts me to the amazing intricacy and beauty of even a simple tree. If you are unfamiliar with contour line drawings you can learn about them here.
6. Create repeating patterns.
I love to find a simple shape, a leaf for example, and create simple repeating pattern. I usually do a sketch with pencil and then add color once I am back in the studio.
7. Take photos for inspiration.
This is probably one of the most common things I do to connect to nature with art. You might be able to tell from all the photos in this post.
I am always snapping photos of things that catch my eye. It can be a beautiful view on a hike in the mountains, sunrises at the beach or even something like an interesting pattern in the concrete in the sidewalk.
“If you truly love nature, you will find beauty everywhere.” Vincent van Gogh
8. Explore with printmaking.
This is a great activity to do with kids. Go for a walk and gather what you like. (We also do this on hikes at home or when traveling.) Leaf rubbings are a very simple and easy printmaking process to explore nature. You can also use paint or ink pads to stamp on paper with your found objects.
9. Draw the same thing multiple ways.
Choose an object and draw it in all perspectives. Try using different techniques, like contour line, cross hatching, stippling, etc. Learning to look at things in different ways and study details is one of the greatest steps in learning to see like an artist.
10. Disconnect to connect to nature with art.
Be sure to turn off the sound on your phone (or leave it at home if you can). Be present with the people you are with and place you are. Many times stepping away from routine or demanding devices is all it takes to ignite the spark of creativity and refresh the imagination.
I hope these simple ideas to connect to nature with art inspire you to get outside, rest, reset and restore!
I’m always looking for more ways to connect with nature, so please reach out if you have anything to add to this list.
