Creative Studies at Yanayacu

I am an artist myself, and dream that one day artists, writers, and creative people from all walks of life will visit Yanayacu. I do scientific illustrations for my own research publications, but prefer the relaxation of working with chalk, my favorite medium. Recently, I have made some attempts at artistic photography and, using these photographs, have made some digital art. One day I hope to see combined biology/art classes being taught at Yanayacu, especially classes that teach artists the intricacies and beauty of the natural world and biologists the skills that will help them express the beauty and excitement of the organisms with which they work. Chalk drawing on black paper (West Virginia 1999) entitled: "Barely There"

A childhood friend of mine from West Virginia, Josh Richman, came down during the very early days of Yanayacu and spent six months teaching and learning with me. Together we came up with many inspirational ideas for my art and Josh's writing. We hope to write and illustrate a children's book together. Josh currently lives and works in Korea, writing on a variety of topics including his stay in Ecuador. The ideas generated by our time together has given substance to my dream of seeing Yanayacu grow beyond a scientific research station into a Center for Creative Studies where people from all creative fields can live together, learn, teach, and expand their own ideas and passions.     Chalk drawing on black paper (1999, West Virginia) entitled: "Yanamamo"