My Art Focus:
As a long time mineral collector, I'm always captivated by the hidden wonders of the earth. Minerals, with their dazzling colours, intricate structures, and unique stories trapped within, have become a constant source of inspiration. Through watercolour, ink, coloured pencils, and other mediums, I strive to unearth their beauty and translate the mesmerising world of minerals into captivating realistic artwork.
My Journey:
I have always had a passion for drawing, but only began painting (non-mineral subjects) in the early 2000s. My fascination with mineral art began later that decade. A challenge to create something related to my mineral hobby sparked a curiosity that has since blossomed into a lifelong pursuit. Over the years, I've experimented with many different techniques and mediums, constantly seeking new ways to capture the essence of these natural treasures. One of my personal favourites is the rendering of mineral specimens on a black background.
Why Substack:
I'm thrilled to embark on this new chapter of my artistic journey through Substack. This platform allows me to share my artwork far more widely, and in a more focussed manner, than my previous website or the Social Media platforms with their dang annoying restrictive algorithms 😣. It will allow me to delve deeper into the inspiration behind each piece, and connect directly with you, as part of a community of supportive mineral art appreciators. I hope to offer additional content like progress photos, studio insights, and previews of upcoming projects.
Where To:
Through "CrocoArt’s Mineral Art Matters," I hope to take you on a captivating exploration of the mineral world, one piece of art at a time. Together, we'll delve into the stories these minerals hold, discover the artistic process behind their transformation, and uncover the breathtaking beauty hidden beneath the earth's surface. Stay tuned for upcoming posts featuring in-depth discussions about specific minerals, and explorations of artistic techniques.
Join Me on the Journey:
I invite you to join me on this exciting journey as I continue to unearth the artistic potential of minerals. Subscribe to "The Unearthing: Mineral Art Matters" to be a part of this exploration and share your own passion for the beauty of the natural world. Let's create a vibrant community where art and science collide, and where the magic of minerals comes alive!
Below: A recent artwork: The elbaite tourmaline and quartz specimen known as the “Rabbit Ears”, from the Tourmaline Queen Mine, San Diego County, California. Rendered using coloured pencils.