2024: a year of wild adventures and artistic inspiration!

This year has been one for the books! As I sit in my studio, reflecting on the whirlwind that was 2024, I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunities that allowed me to explore the world. It was a year of checking off some big bucket-list items, with each trip offering new sights, sounds, and inspirations.

David and I kicked off the year in Costa Rica, where the vibrant colors of the rainforest and the call of howler monkeys set the tone for our adventures. June took us to Tanzania for a safari that was nothing short of magical. Just a few days ago, we returned from South and southeastern Australia, where we explored the Great Barrier Reef, strolled Tasmania’s rugged coastline, and marveled at wildlife we’d only ever seen in books.

What stands out most from this year is the wildlife. Each trip brought encounters with animals that felt like glimpses into another world—wild creatures in their natural habitats, living their lives undisturbed. These moments left an indelible mark on me, as both a traveler and an artist. The diversity of life I witnessed has already begun to influence my work in ways I couldn’t have imagined.

Here are my top ten takeaway moments from this year of travel:

1. Witnessing the start of the Great Migration in Tanzania
   

   

   Watching wildebeest and zebras getting ready to traverse the Serengeti was like stepping into a nature documentary. The sheer scale and rhythm of it all left me in awe. While I couldn't bear to watch the brutality of the actual crossing, the rutting, strutting and stirring of throngs of these magnificent beasts in the days preceding their crossing were thrilling to be around. 

2. Hearing the Serengeti at night
   

   

   Sleeping in a bush camp surrounded by the sounds of lions roaring, zebras calling, and the occasional rustling in the bushes was equal parts thrilling and humbling.

3. Exploring the Great Barrier Reef
   

   

   Snorkeling in the crystalline waters felt like entering an alien world. The coral, fish, and vivid colors were so surreal, I found myself mentally sketching as I swam.

4. Trekking in Tasmania
   

   

   Hiking through dense forests and along dramatic cliffs, I was struck by the unique beauty of this island. The eucalyptus forests and marsupials, like wombats and wallabies, were unforgettable.

5. 5. Witnessing the colors of Costa Rica’s wildlife
   

   

   While sloths proved elusive, the vibrant display of parrots and other fantastical birds more than made up for it. Watching a flock of wild macaws flying freely in the morning was breathtaking. On a nighttime walk, we encountered the dazzling hues of tree frogs—tiny bursts of color against the dark rainforest backdrop. These moments felt like nature showing off its most brilliant palette, and they’ve stayed with me ever since.

6. Collecting plastics on Pangani beach
   

   

   While in Tanzania, I performed a beach cleanup, filling bags upon bags with  garbage that I collected. It felt meaningful to give back to the stunning coastal environment while marveling at the marine life.

7. Walking among marsupials in Australia
   

   

   Seeing kangaroos, wallabies and pademelons hop through open fields felt quintessentially Australian and gave me a deep appreciation for how animals adapt to their environments.

8. Discovering African wildflowers
   

   

   From the Serengeti to the Tanzanian coastline, the flora was every bit as fascinating as the fauna. Brilliantly colored wildflowers seemed to bloom in defiance of the rugged conditions.

9. Swimming in hidden waterfalls in Costa Rica
   

   

   After hiking through the rainforest, finding a secluded waterfall was pure magic. The combination of light, water, and lush green foliage felt like stepping into a painting.

10. Learning from local guides around the world
    

    

    In Tanzania, our Swiss-Tanzanian guide, Gian, shared his unique perspective as he led us to remote areas, introducing us to Maasai people and their rich traditions. In Costa Rica, our tico guide took us on unforgettable nature walks and even demonstrated the art of chocolate-making—a delicious highlight of the trip. In Australia, we hired a divemaster to explore the Great Barrier Reef, gaining insights into the underwater world and its stunning ecosystems. These guides enriched our travels with their expertise and local knowledge, making every second more meaningful.

Each of these moments left me inspired and full of gratitude. As I return to my studio, I find myself revisiting these memories, letting them inform the colors, textures, and forms I bring to my canvases. This year wasn’t just about travel; it was about connection—both to the natural world and to the stories of the people and creatures that inhabit it.

Here’s to 2024, a year of wild and wonderful adventures that will continue to shape me as a person and as an artist! What were your most inspiring moments of the year? I’d love to hear about them.