As an artist, finding your unique voice can be a challenging and evolving journey. For me, this journey has been deeply influenced by walks in nature, symbolism, and the timeless designs of William Morris.

Here’s how these elements helped shape my current artistic style.

A Turning Point

My 30th year was filled with personal upheavals that left me creatively drained. As a result, I stopped painting altogether, feeling as though my well of creativity had run dry.

During this difficult time, nature became my sanctuary.

Long walks through the changing seasons and quiet moments observing local wildlife provided me with so much comfort and a sense of connection.

Reconnecting with Childhood Passions

Reflecting on my early years, I remembered the joy I found in painting animals and birds as a child.

This passion had faded over the years, but suddenly it resurfaced, offering a glimmer of creative inspiration.

I didn’t just want to paint birds, though; I wanted to capture their essens through symbolism and greater connection to the Tapestry of Life.

With the Help of William Morris

It was at this juncture that I turned to one of my favorite artists for inspiration: William Morris.

Morris was a key figure in the Arts and Crafts movement, known for his intricate designs that often featured natural elements like leaves, flowers, and animals.

His work reminded me that the colors and patterns found in nature can provide endless creative possibilities.

Morris’s approach to art resonated with me deeply. He believed in the interconnectedness of all things and used his designs to tell stories of this connection.

Inspired by his work, I began designing my own patterns based on local flora and fauna. These patterns serve as aesthetic backdrops in my paintings, representing the harmony between man-made creations and the natural world.

Embracing Nature’s Influence

My time in nature provided more than just peace; it offered a wealth of inspiration. I spent countless hours taking photos of flowers, leaves, and birds, building a content library that I could draw from for my designs.

These natural elements became integral to my work, helping me create art that felt authentic and deeply connected to the world around me.

The combination of nature’s influence and Morris’s designs helped me find my creative voice again and as a result, my art evolved into something that felt true to my soul.

As John Muir famously said,

“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.”

This quote perfectly encapsulates my journey—finding far more than just artistic inspiration, but a renewed sense of purpose and connection.

By embracing the natural world and the timeless beauty of William Morris’s designs, I was able to rediscover my passion for art and develop a style that feels authentically me.

If you’re an artist seeking your own voice, I encourage you to look to nature and the artists who inspire you. You may find, as I did, that the answers are all around you.

Warmly,

Marie x