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How Nature Influences Artistic Expression: A Deep Dive

Writer's picture: KadiraKadira

Art and nature have long been intertwined, with the natural world serving as an endless source of inspiration for artists throughout history. This relationship continues to evolve in contemporary art as artists find new ways to explore, interpret, and celebrate the beauty and complexity of the natural world.


One of the first and most well-known female artists to do this was Georgia O'Keeffe. Her intimate, macro view of flowers was something never seen before. Both her landscapes and flowers became simplified abstracts, distilling the essence of the subject before her.


Jack in the pulpit - Georgia Okeeffe
Jack in the pulpit - Georgia Okeeffe

Georgia O’Keeffe merged a modern aesthetic with the desire to capture the essence of nature. The results are among the greatest works of the 20th century.



She made bold use of color. While she took cues from nature, her palette explores many surprising hues which created an overall effect that is timeless. O’Keeffe is a master of painting.





Many modern artists draw inspiration from nature in abstract and innovative ways.







Andy Goldsworthy  is an artist who has taken the idea of environmental art to a whole new level. He uses the environment itself to create stunning artworks that last for a time and then dissolve back into nature again. He used natural materials to create stunning works that highlight the beauty and fragility of the natural world.



Environmental sculpture - Andy Goldsworthy
Environmental sculpture - Andy Goldsworthy


And then of course there were artists like Monet with his beautiful gardens at Giverny which inspired his water lilies series of works.


Monet's water lilies
Monet's water lilies


Laura Shape reminds us that art can transcend mere aesthetics; it can be

a powerful medium to express environmental concerns and inspire positive change.

Through her art, Shape seeks to portray the complexity and beauty of these invasive organisms, while also encouraging viewers to reflect on the fragile equilibrium that sustains our ecosystems.

As we celebrate the work of artists like Laura J Shape, let us be motivated to contribute to the preservation of nature's diversity and foster a deeper appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us.


Invasive species skin decorated with gold leaf and paint
Invasive species skin decorated with gold leaf and paint

You can find Laura here:





These artists, among many others, showcase the diverse ways in which previous and contemporary creators engage with and draw inspiration from the natural world. Their work not only celebrates the beauty of nature but also encourages viewers to reflect on their own relationship with the environment. As our understanding of the natural world continues to evolve, so too does the art that it inspires, offering new perspectives and deepening our appreciation for the intricate web of life that surrounds us.


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