Follow Your Dreams! Graphite Drawing Juried into International Wildlife Art Show.

Graphite Drawing in Wildlife Art Show

I want to share a wonderful memory with you. Fifteen years ago, I was juried into ‘Western Visions’, an annual exhibition held at the National Museum of Wildlife Art in the US, with a graphite drawing of a bison called ‘Contentment’.

Graphite drawing of a bison — 'Contentment'

Harsh Comments!

This was a huge recognition for me as a realistic wildlife artist, especially as I had struggled with the acceptance of this genre in Australia throughout my youth. My high school art teacher explicitly told me, “Kate, you will never get anywhere drawing like this,” as she smacked my art book down on my desk, which was filled with realistic animal pencil drawings!

I am so pleased that I did not allow her comment and humiliation to define what art was to me, and I continued to practice and refine my drawing skills to achieve my life-long goal of being the best artist I could be.

Each time I travelled to the US, I visited the National Museum of Wildlife Art, as its perfect location in Jackson allows for stunning scenery, amazing wildlife encounters, and gallery visits such inspiration and always an education.

Dreams and Goals!

I had dreamed of entering Western Visions for a few years but knew it was a highly competitive event featuring the best contemporary western and wildlife artists. But why not? It would be a great goal to work towards.

Setting specific goals has helped me aim higher with my work, and entering Western Visions would be one of them.

I was thrilled to be accepted with my first application to this exhibition. I decided to travel to the US to enjoy the celebrations and immerse myself in the enormity of the event and achievement.

As I entered the hall where Western Visions was hung and saw my drawing placed amongst such highly esteemed artists such as Harley Brown, Robert Bateman, Greg Beecham and Lindsay Scott, to name a few, I took a deep breath. I thanked myself for not paying attention to my art teacher’s comment.

Be mindful of comments on your artwork. We have an emotional investment in each piece, and it can hurt if the words are harsh and thoughtless. It’s your art and your journey; make the most of it and enjoy what it can bring to your life. You never know where it might take you!