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Wildlife Art
Harnessing the Delicate Qualities of Charcoal + a Mental Health Education,
Valerie's Work invites a connection to wildlife animals + Mental Health Themes.
Read Below to Discover the mental health connection to each piece.
*If you are interested in purchasing an original artwork, please contact us directly at valkat.fineart@gmail.com
Vision of Light Through the Darkness
The Owl eye is able to see through the darkest nights, and this piece conveys the importance of reflecting light back into the world when we see it, even during dark and trying times.
9x12 in.
Material: charcoal on strathmore toned gray paper
*Note: This Original Has Sold, but
Archival Prints are Available in the Gallery Shop.
Reference Credit: Flickr via Pexels
Attunement
As the Wolf looks up in the moonlight and shares its call to connect and harmonize with nature, this action symbolizes that we can reach a state of attunement and connection with our own nature.
9x12 in.
Materials: charcoal on strathmore toned gray paper
Matted in a Glass Frame & Ready to Hang on Your Wall
Reference Credit: Jason Renfrow via Pexels
Hopeful Discovery
The Lynx looking up in wonder demonstrates themes of holding onto hope and the wonders of self-discovery.
9x12 in.
Materials: charcoal on strathmore toned gray paper
*Note: This Original Has Sold, but
Archival Prints are Available in the Gallery Shop.
Reference Credit: Vincent M.A. Janssen via Pexels
Gentle Strength
The Deer carries itself with an intense strength and yet also has a gentleness in its expression that encourages us to embrace our own inner gentleness and strength to help us be compassionate and resilient in the face of obstacles.
16x20 in.
materials: charcoal on canvas
*Note: This Original Has Sold, but Archival Prints are Available in the Gallery Shop.
Reference Credit: Ray Bilcliff via Pexels
A Lucky Moment
As a symbol of luck and self-growth, the hedgehog finds some of its own luck as it comes across some beautiful mushrooms along its path. Not knowing the beauty of the treetops like the birds, the hedgehog finds the small beauties of life and stays grounded in gratitude.
11x14 in.
Materials: charcoal on Canvas
protected with Varnish & Ready to Hang on Your Wall
Reference Credits: Pixabay & Egor Kamelev via Pexels
Humble Endurance
The Tortoise symbolizes longevity and wisdom, as it can live for over 100 years. While our life spans may not be as long, we can take inspiration from how the tortoise lives. The Tortoise moves along at its own pace, not concerned with the pace of others. In this way, it stays grounded in humility and endures the tests and trials of time.
16x20 in.
Materials: charcoal on canvas
*Note: This Original Has Sold, but
Archival Prints are Available in the Gallery Shop.
Reference Credit: The Artist's Husband
A New Horizon
As the Eagle surveys its surroundings, it looks onto the horizon and discovers new adventures.
9x12 in.
Materials: charcoal on strathmore toned gray paper
Matted in a Glass Frame & Ready to Hang on Your Wall
Reference Credit: Flickr via Pexels
JOYFUL EMBRACE
As a very social and playful creature, the Otter never misses an opportunity to embrace the joys of life. The Otter plays and finds joy in life's challenges, reminding us that we, too, can face life's challenges and embrace joy.
11x14 in.
Materials: charcoal on strathmore bristol paper
*Note: This Original Has Sold, but ​
Archival Prints are Available in the Gallery Shop.
Reference Credit: Klajdi Cena via Pexels
FOCUSED AMBITION
With its incredible speed, intelligence, and vision, the Falcon pursues its goals with tenacity. Once it has its eyes on what's most important, it rises to the challenge. In the same way, when we keep our eyes fixed on the things that are important to us, we rise to the challenge with ambition in our hearts.
9x12 in.
Materials: charcoal on strathmore bristol paper
Matted in a Glass Frame & Ready to Hang on Your Wall
Reference Credit: Wolfgang Wendefeuer via Pexels
ABUNDANT COURAGE
The Bear's power has a strong presence in the animal kingdom because of its sheer size, strength, and abundant courage to face life head-on. The Bear doesn't let doubt prevent it from doing hard things, reminding us that when we move past our doubts, we too can have the courage to do hard things.
18x24 in.
Materials: charcoal on canvas
Protected with Varnish & Ready to Hang on Your Wall
Reference Credit: Jiri Mikolas via Pexels
RENEWED IN THE RAIN
In the first rainfall of Spring, the Robin emerges to rejoice in the regrowth that comes with the transition from winter to spring. In the same way, we can recognize that during the rainfall, new growth lies ahead, and it might be the start of something beautiful. It's a renewal in the rain.
4x6 in.
Materials: charcoal on strathmore bristol paper
*Note: This Original Has Sold, but
Archival Prints are Available in the Gallery Shop.
Reference Credit: Skyler Ewing via Pexels
RESOURCEFUL ANTICIPATION
The Squirrel plans for the future months when its resources are limited. The requires that the Squirrel be adaptable and resourceful to prepare for a more challenging time when its resources are spread thin. Like the Squirrel, planning for our future self helps us anticipate and adapt to future challenges.
8x8 in.
Materials: charcoal on canvas
*Note: This Original Has Sold, but
Archival Prints are Available in the Gallery Shop.
Reference Credit: Timo Niedermann via Pexels
CURIOUS OBSERVANCE
The Fox, known for its clever and playful nature, sits in the grass observing its surroundings. Using intelligence and creativity, it makes its own luck and does not waste time sitting in judgement. It knows that to have fun, be adaptable, and be resilient, it must approach life with curious observance.
11x14 in.
Materials: charcoal ON Strathmore Bristol paper
Matted in a Glass Frame & Ready to Hang on Your Wall
Reference Credit: Pixabay via Pexels
THE WISDOM OF PATIENCE
Standing in the water for long periods, the Heron uses its strength and sound judgement to be patient. It doesn't abandon hope that what it needs will come, reminding us not to abandon hope even when the waters look empty. If we can tap into the wisdom and patience, good things will come.
9x12 in.
Materials: charcoal on Strathmore Bristol paper
Matted in a Glass Frame & Ready to Hang on Your Wall
Reference Credit: Robert So via Pexels
IMPARTING CLARITY
The Blue Jay calls out as it sits on the branch, not caring how others may judge its call because it uses its voice to communicate its presence with clarity. The Blue Jay imparts to us the importance of clarity and communication, encouraging us to speak up for our values and what's close to our hearts.
4x6 in.
Materials: charcoal on Strathmore Bristol paper
*Note: This Original Has Sold, but
Archival Prints are Available in the Gallery Shop.
Reference Credit: Mohan Nannapaneni via Pexels
Walking Together
Two Sandhill Cranes, one adult and one juvenile, are walking together through the seasons of life. Just as the cranes migrate together during seasons of uncertainty, we navigate our own seasons of uncertainty, finding strength in our connections and loving supports to continue on our journey. Emerging onto the canvas are a couple of delicate cranberry blossoms, nodding their namesake to the cranes and symbolizing the beauty that emerges in challenging times.
16x20 in.
Materials: charcoal on Canvas
Reference Credit: Lorry Erickson
Space to Grieve And Live
The Raven sits alone, mourning a life-changing loss. It appears immersed in an environment that feels bright and empty and alone as though its world has been drained of life. It knows that the solemn pains of its grief will never go away, but it remembers that it can fly and will not stay forever in this lonely place. It will grow around its pain to make space for a meaningful and lovely life.
16x20 in.
Materials: charcoal on Canvas
*Note: This Original Has Sold, but
Archival Prints are Available in the Gallery Shop.
Reference Credit: Manuel Schlichter via Pexels
Hope in the Stars
The Snow Leopard looks up at the night sky, surrounded by darkness. At first, it seems lost in the vastness of the night. But as the stars begin to shine, the leopard finds comfort and hope in their light. This piece captures the quiet moment of remembering that even in the darkest times, there is always beauty and hope to be found by looking up. Because while the night is temporary, the hope found in the stars is enduring.
8x10 in.
Materials: charcoal on Acrylic-Painted Wood Panel
Reference Credit: Valerie Kathryn
Graceful Resistance
“Gliding along the water’s surface, the swan resists being consumed by the dark depths through carrying a light of compassion and love. It gathers its strength before it's ready to fly, reminding us that love and compassion are the resistance we need to gather
our strength to fly.”
12x16 in.
Materials: charcoal on Bristol Paper
Matted and Framed
Reference Credit: Valerie Kathryn
Persistent Spirit
"Braving the harsh terrain and weather of the Scottish Highlands, the Highland Cow symbolizes strength, resilience, and the rugged spirit of its people. This gentle giant reminds us of the inner resilience and spirit we carry
in facing life’s challenges."
18x24 in.
Materials: charcoal on Canvas
*Note: This Original Has Sold, but
Archival Prints are Available in the Gallery Shop.
Reference Credit: Wildlifereferncephotos.com
Fiercely Grounded
“Emerging from its burrow, the Badger embodies resilience and determination. It doesn’t let fear hold it back from living fully in the present moment, remaining fiercely grounded, and not backing down from a challenge.”
16x20 in.
Materials: charcoal on Canvas
Reference Credit: Valerie Kathryn
Forward Momentum
“As a storm approaches, the Bison joins with its herd. They band together to face the storm head on. Their kindness and interconnectedness allows them the momentum to keep moving forward to get through the toughest weather.”
24x30 in.
Materials: charcoal on Canvas
Reference Credit: Valerie Kathryn
Savor the moment
"A symbol of hard work and prosperity, the chipmunk busily gathers acorns along its path. But today, instead of rushing, it pauses to appreciate a calming spot nestled in the forest. And with gratitude it savors the moment."
11x14 in.
Materials: charcoal on Canvas
*Note: This Original Has Sold, but
Archival Prints are Available in the Gallery Shop.
Reference Credit: Valerie Kathryn
Protective Wisdom
"Though small in size, the burrow owl carries a bold protective presence and sharp awareness, using its vocalizations to warn of danger. Likewise, we have our own inner protector that can use anger as a wise signal, alerting us to potential harm or unmet needs. When we approach that feeling with the owl's clarity and curiosity, it reveals what needs protection and care, and how we can respond with wisdom."
9x12 in.
Materials: charcoal on Bristol Paper, Matted and Framed
Reference Credit: Valerie Kathryn
Resourceful Agility
“In its search for what it stored away, the squirrel sometimes forgets, so it has to rely on its agility and adaptability to survive. It understands that even with careful planning, things don’t always go as expected. Through observing how the squirrel keeps moving forward and adjusts to what comes, we can use our agility and resourcefulness to navigate the unpredictable moments of life.”
8x8 in.
Materials: charcoal on Canvas
Reference Credit: Valerie Kathryn
Beautiful Change
"After an incredible journey, the Monarch butterfly rests on a flower and finds a new place to call home. It made a journey of thousands of miles because the environment it was in no longer allowed it to survive. Though change can be hard, it learns to find beauty in the unfamiliar because in this new place it has what it needs to thrive.”
8x8 in.
Materials: charcoal on Canvas
Reference Credit: Valerie Kathryn
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