What Inspires My Work as an Artist

Inspiration comes from many places, but for me, it begins with observation. The natural world and the human form are central to my work. Leaves, branches, bone, and posture all carry structure and rhythm. Each subject tells a story through line and form, whether it is found in a quiet botanical detail or in the curve of a figure.

I work across many mediums—charcoal, pen and ink, watercolor, pastel, clay, and wood. Each material asks for a different approach. Charcoal allows for deep shadow and texture. Ink sharpens edges and defines line. Watercolor softens forms with transparency. Wood and clay bring structure into three dimensions. Moving between mediums keeps the work alive and prevents repetition from becoming routine.

Nature as a Teacher

A lot of my inspiration comes from the outdoors. A walk in the woods can provide more ideas than a week of looking at finished work. Plants, trees, and landscapes reveal systems of balance and imperfection that feel both grounded and infinite. I return often to botanical forms, not because they are decorative, but because they are instructive.

A stem under tension, a leaf turning toward the light, the growth rings of wood—all of these show strength, movement, and time. They remind me that art, like nature, is built on patience and persistence.

The Human Form

The human body is another constant subject in my practice. A simple gesture can capture presence in a way that words cannot. Through figure drawing, I study proportion, anatomy, and subtle shifts in expression or movement. Each drawing is not just an image, but a record of attention—a mark of time spent observing closely.

I often return to the same poses or figures again and again. Repetition is not about copying but about refining. Each attempt reveals something new, a detail I missed before, or a stronger way to capture weight and energy on paper.

“Driving Home the Flock” by Robert Hills 1812

Influence of Other Artists

Inspiration also comes from artists past and present. Classical figure drawings, Renaissance studies, and modern botanical illustrations all inform my work. The discipline and consistency of these artists remind me that art is not a single achievement but a lifelong practice. Visiting museums or studying historical sketches provides both perspective and motivation.

Daily Practice

More than anything else, I am inspired by the act of making itself. I need to create every day. The discipline of showing up at the page or in the studio matters more than waiting for inspiration to arrive. Working through routine builds the foundation for stronger ideas and better execution.

Some days yield finished work. Other days leave me with a page of studies or an unfinished sketch. Both are necessary. Both move the work forward.

Closing

As an NC artist, I find inspiration in the balance between structure and movement, nature and form, repetition and discovery. The work grows from a simple process: observe closely, practice daily, and remain open to what the subject has to teach.