Stephanie Harold
I am an Alaskan sketch artist working largely on location. My work explores all levels of an environment, from toe-level to the full scene. I want to capture what the camera cannot—the emotional response and sense of wonder that comes from fully experiencing specific moments in a wild location. I welcome the viewer into the intersection of nature, science, and culture. I hope my art and writing help my audience connect with nature and discover related, intriguing scientific and cultural ideas—in the process, even soothing the nervous system in these hectic times. My art practice is the gift of a severe injury that, for a while, prevented me from being in the wilderness or even trekking through urban spaces.
I prefer to turn off my phone and wander the cell-free universe with a bag of sketch supplies. I’m often outside: getting wet despite my umbrella, trying to keep my paper from blowing away, hoping that my watercolor dries enough before the next dark squall hits.
I live in the tiny community of Hoonah on a huge wilderness island in Southeast Alaska. This is the traditional territory of the Huna Tlingit, a place where massive brown bears outnumber people. I publish, sell my work, and do collaborations and commissions.
I also want my art practice to inspire others, to make them feel that they can do this too. That’s why I host a free Community Sketch Club in Hoonah. Moreover, at Hoonah City Schools, I teach observational art skills as a way to explore our unique environment.
Ideally, the act of exploring the natural world more fully leads to a commitment to guaranteeing its protection. For this reason, I regularly donate a portion of my profits to organizations working for environmental conservation in Alaska, including the Southeast Alaska Conservation Council, Natural Resources Defense Council, Alaska Carbon Reduction Fund, Sitka Conservation Society, The Nature Conservancy, and Earth Justice.
Contact
https://www.discoverybysketch.com/
stephanie@discoverybysketch.com
@discoverybysketch
Interview
What inspires your art practice and keeps you motivated?
Taking time in the natural world.
How does your mission as an artist influence the work you create?
I am happiest outside in wild places, which means that is where I do my best work. My mission to share those experiences follows naturally.
Can you share a key part of your creative process that helps you stay focused?
Constantly exposing myself to new techniques and approaches.
What mindset tip do you rely on to overcome challenges in your art career?
The mantra “moving is winning.” You don't have to do a lot; you just have to keep doing it.
How do you hope your art impacts the world or your community?
I want my art practice to inspire others, to make them feel that they can do this too. I also hope it encourages people to pay attention to nature's details. Giving attention is a form of giving love, and our planet needs love.
