Brazil Research Immersion Project

Dear friends, I have been offered a rare opportunity to combine my reverence for nature with my devotion for exploring the bridge between human emotion and flora and fauna of the wild. The founder of Serra Bonita Reserve , a non-profit organization whose mission is to protect and conserve Atlantic Brazilian Rainforest, has invited me to spend three weeks immersed in study with moths and butterflies in the untamed jungles of Brazil. I will be assisting the founder in cataloging, identifying and possibly describing new species. My nights will be spent exploring the forest on my own as this is such a prime time to experience the nocturnal world and all its curious inhabitants. During the day I will immerse myself with my findings and record my experience through field sketches, notes and drawings to further my works and admiration on the natural world. I consider this endeavor an important research period for my upcoming works as the synchronicity of Serra Bonita’s mission and my personal passions will enable me to contribute to a project that is having meaningful impact on this region of lush rainforest. 

The abundant Atlantic Rainforest is a significant place to both our global ecosystem and to me personally: a rich environment teeming with life, textures, colors and sounds that are unlike anywhere else on earth. This delicate combination of beauty and loss both inspires and fuels my work. My curiosity and passions flourish in this environment!
Asking for seed support from my followers at the very inception of a project is a new approach for me. By appealing to – and seeking support from – my community in this beginning idea stage, I hope to work toward a shared vision that is bolstered by your invested belief in my process. Having your support from the beginning will help me manifest and complete my next series.

I am offering some rewards to help fund this endeavor. For $100  you will receive a print of a watercolor or sketch study. At the sponsorship of $250 you will receive an original watercolor or drawing. And the most exciting, the first $1,000 pledge will receive an oil painting (size tbd) all of which I complete following this research period. Contributions of any amount will help me achieve my goal and are immensely appreciated! My financial goal will cover my round-trip flight, living expenses,art supplies, and any emergency medical bills. My departure date is January 23rd, 2018, and I am trying to fulfill my goal within 30 days!

Those of you who know me personally know how deep my devotion and love is for nature. As I have long dreamed of this kind of opportunity without expectation of fulfillment, I am ecstatic that I have the chance to make it a reality. Thank you for all of the love and support along this journey; my gratitude knows no bounds!