March 31, 2025

“The Art of Nature” Exhibit Returns

A celebration of scientific illustration and the beauty of the natural world, The Art of Nature runs through June 2025, featuring 46 talented local artists, engaging workshops, and exclusive events.

SANTA CRUZ, CA — MARCH 24, 2025 — Nature and creativity collide once again as The Art of Nature returns to the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History for its 37th year. This cherished annual exhibition, opening Friday, March 28, and running through June 8, 2025, highlights the extraordinary work of 46 local artists who bring the natural world to life through the detailed craft of scientific illustration.

“Being part of The Art of Nature is a truly special experience for me. It’s an opportunity to share my passion for the natural world and highlight the intricate beauty of our neighborly flora and fauna” said Maria Amorette Klos, Featured Artist in The Art of Nature marketing materials. “Through scientific illustration, I strive to not only capture the details but to inspire others to look more closely at the environment around them. Nature has so much to teach us, and I hope my work can help others develop a deeper connection with the world we all share.”

The Museum has celebrated the intersection of science and art since 1989, offering visitors a chance to admire intricate depictions of wildlife, plants, and ecosystems while exploring the techniques behind these stunning works. This year’s exhibit goes beyond the gallery, inviting visitors to engage in nature journaling, try their hand at illustration, and connect with artists through special events and interactive workshops.

FEATURED EVENTS

In addition to the exhibition, the Museum will host a variety of programs designed to inspire creativity and deepen connections with nature:

FREE First Friday: The Art of Nature | April 4, 5-8 p.m.
Scientific Illustration & Observation in Watercolors | April 12, 10 a.m. to noon
Art of Nature Workshop: Butterflies in Watercolor | April 18, 10 a.m. to noon
Art of Nature Workshop: Birds in Gouache | April 23, 10 a.m. to noon

…and more!

MEET THE ARTISTS

The exhibition features the work of 46 talented local artists, including:

Alyssa Colasanti, Andrea Dingeldein, Anela Mendoza, Anna Pedersen, Arin Vasquez, Avalon Conklin, Brett Bell, Brittany Costanzo, Brynna Reilly, Cady DeLay, Calene Luczo Fletcher, Chloe Rickards, Claudia Stevens, Elizabeth Romanini, Erin E. Hunter, Erin Ellis, Evelyn Lam, Gianna Nourok, Hannah Caisse, Kaelin O’Hare, Karina Neeley, Katie McCullough, Khenya Clark, Kiwi (Catherine) Cyr, Kylene Gilmore, Lauren Ringelman, Maia Perry, Mari Stauffer-Howard, Maria Amorette Klos, Maria Cecilia Freeman, Mason Schratter, Megan Gnekow, Michelle Waters, Molly Brown, Natalie Chan, Nina Lutz, Rachel Diaz-Bastin, Reid Psaltis, Sami Chang, Sarah Brothers Bot, Suzanne Clark, Tina Curiel, Tina Fuller Somers, Torie Robinson, and Vance Lawry.

These artists capture the awe-inspiring beauty of nature, from the depths of the ocean to the heights of the redwoods, through scientific accuracy and artistic mastery.

ABOUT OUR SPONSORS

The Art of Nature is made possible through the generous support of The Hyatt Family, 90.3 KAZU, and West Coast Community Bank (formerly known as Santa Cruz County Bank).