As an artist, I’ve always believed that nature is the world’s greatest painter. Whether it’s the fiery red of a setting sun, the deep blues of the ocean, or the soft greens of a moss-covered forest, the colors found in nature have a way of stirring the soul and sparking creativity. Yesterday, strolling around on the beach I was yet again reminded that the best color palette already exists right in front of me I just need to pay attention.
Vivid Hues and Subtle Shades
Nature’s colors are rich and complex. There’s the brilliant orange of autumn leaves against a clear blue sky, the soft pastel pink of a sunset reflecting on the water, or the unexpected burst of purple in a wildflower growing by the roadside. Even the colors we might consider “simple,” like the green of grass or the brown of tree bark, have endless variations when you look closely.
When I paint, I often refer to these colors in nautre—not just as inspiration for the hues themselves but also for how they interact with one another. There is a balance within them. It's interesting how out in nature, colors don’t clash; they complement and enhance one another. A vibrant yellow flower stands out against a deep green field, just as a streak of light breaking through storm clouds reveals a palette of unexpected colors. This harmony is something I strive to replicate in my work and to find in the layers of ink I put on canvas.
The Emotion of Nature’s Palette
Colors in nature can also evoke emotion. The cool blues and greens of a forest stream might inspire calm and reflection. The warm golds and oranges of a sunlit meadow might spark joy and energy. When I’m painting, I try to channel these emotions. I ask myself, “How do these colors make me feel?” and use that as a guide to shape the mood and flow of my work. "What do I see?" Also helps me stay out of my head and more in the creative flow.
One of my favorite parts of working with color is that it allows me to capture not just the look or shade but it brings forth the vibe or essence of nature. The deep, moody hues of a twilight sky speak to the quiet and mystery of dusk, while the bright, clear colors of spring flowers convey hope and new beginnings.
The Unique, Unpredictable Beauty of Nature
What makes nature’s colors even more inspiring is their unpredictability. No two sunsets are the same. The exact shade of the ocean shifts depending on the light, the weather, and the time of day. In my artwork, I aim to capture that sense of spontaneity, allowing colors to flow and blend in unexpected ways. Working with acrylic ink and a glass eye dropper gives me the freedom to explore how pigments can bleed and merge, much like the ever-changing hues of the natural world.
It’s this unpredictability and chaos that keeps my creativity alive and interesting to me and to the viewer. Nature’s palette is always shifting, always offering something new to see. Each season brings with it a different set of colors, and even within a single day, the light can change how we perceive the same scene. I’m constantly finding new inspiration, whether it’s from the soft grays of a cloudy day or the rich reds and purples of a sunset.
A Deep Connection to the Earth
As much as the colors themselves inspire me, it’s becoming in tuned to the outside, the earth and life that truly fuels my creativity. Being in nature, surrounded by its effortless presence grounds me and reminds me of the bigger picture. It’s a reminder that we are part of something much larger, and that the beauty we see in the world is a reflection of the beauty within ourselves.
As I continue to create, I’ll always turn to nature for inspiration. Its colors are a reminder that simple beauty is everywhere, waiting to be seen and appreciated. Whether I’m painting a portrait of a beloved pet or capturing the essence of a flower from my garden nature’s palette is always my guide—bold, subtle, and endlessly inspiring.
Keep creating! <3 Kasha
Comments