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In a sense, most if not all artistic expression is inspired by the natural world. Whether a photo realistic drawing, a sculpture in clay, or an abstract oil painting, art is essentially the interpretation of nature by human beings.
In a sense, most if not all artistic expression is inspired by the natural world. Whether a photo realistic drawing, a sculpture in clay, or an abstract oil painting, art is essentially the interpretation of nature by human beings.
This is not a new idea, of course. Some of the earliest known artistic representations of nature come from the Lascaux Cave in France (pictured left). Likely painted over generations starting about 17,000 years ago, the Lascaux images include a wide variety of animals, humans and abstract forms. Curiously, no plants are represented and some of the identified animals have since gone extinct.
Because the images are so ancient, it is impossible to understand their true intent and meaning. However, some anthropologists theorize that they may have been an illustrated record of successful hunts or intended as a magical way to keep prey animals abundant in a time before widespread agriculture or animal husbandry.
Because the images are so ancient, it is impossible to understand their true intent and meaning. However, some anthropologists theorize that they may have been an illustrated record of successful hunts or intended as a magical way to keep prey animals abundant in a time before widespread agriculture or animal husbandry.
Even as early human beings began to organize themselves into communities, and later civilizations, the role of nature in art was always present. This is probably because we have always recognized our dependency on the natural world, from the falling rain to soil rich enough to grow enough food to sustain us.
Artists from all over the world have found inspiration in the ocean. Even to this day, the ocean represents the vast unknown, something that simultaneously scares and fascinates us. Our dual relationship with the sea is reflected in the work of Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai (right). "The Wave," painted around 1829, depicts how the power of the sea seems monstrous compared to the fragility of the nearby boats. Even Mount Fuji in the background looks tiny and almost unimportant compared to the looming wave.
Artists from all over the world have found inspiration in the ocean. Even to this day, the ocean represents the vast unknown, something that simultaneously scares and fascinates us. Our dual relationship with the sea is reflected in the work of Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai (right). "The Wave," painted around 1829, depicts how the power of the sea seems monstrous compared to the fragility of the nearby boats. Even Mount Fuji in the background looks tiny and almost unimportant compared to the looming wave.
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Art inspired by nature can also take practical forms. Consider the work of architect Frank Lloyd Wright, an early twentieth century advocate for designing buildings that not only compliment the natural surroundings, but also benefit the environment. “A building should appear to grow easily from its site and be shaped to harmonize with its surroundings if Nature is manifest there,” he said. The Fallingwater House (shown here) is a great example of his philosophy. Located in rural Pennsylvania, the house was constructed partially over a natural waterfall but does not impede the natural flow of water. Although originally built as a summer retreat for a local family, today Fallingwater is a museum and an UNESCO World Heritage Site. |
As you explore the world around you, how will you express what you find and what you feel? Check out the features below to see how other young adults are finding inspiration for their art in our natural world.
Related Features: Youth Activities: Music and Dance | Youth Activities: Photography and Video | Youth Activities: Reading and Writing
Related Features: Youth Activities: Music and Dance | Youth Activities: Photography and Video | Youth Activities: Reading and Writing
Features Related to Art:
Ocean Geographic’s Elysium Artists for the Arctic: This Virtual Exploration will transport you to the Arctic, where global climate change is endangering both the native species and precious ecosystems. The project’s diverse artistic interpretation and educational outreach program is designed to inspire arctic conservation for the citizens of the world, especially youth.
Painting From The Heart: Eighteen-year-old Sierra Payne has a passion for protecting the world ocean and found that her artistic ability gave her a unique and entertaining way of spreading her message.
Painting From The Heart: Eighteen-year-old Sierra Payne has a passion for protecting the world ocean and found that her artistic ability gave her a unique and entertaining way of spreading her message.
