We know it can be hard to find the space to create art and get inspired, that’s why we created Our Artist Fellowship Program; to provide artists with the time, space, and permission to recharge by creating.
This month we’re featuring three illustrators who made time to Getaway to capture the inspiration that came with some extra time in nature. Here’s what each of them had to say about creativity, their connections to nature, and their Getaways.
Jessica Shepherd
On Creativity
I’m an artist and illustrator based in Hillsboro, Oregon. Creativity has always been an important part of my life, but I fell in love with artistic processes in High School and went on to get my B.A. in Art. I grew up in the beautiful Pacific Northwest and have always been inspired by, and felt incredible peace, being in nature. Both of these themes of peace and nature come up frequently in my art as I strive to communicate the essence of a place through detailed pen and ink work.
On Nature
I view both experiences in nature and the creative process as therapeutic in my life. They both provide a chance to step out of our normal responsibilities, take a deep breath, and focus on something beautiful. They are ways to create space in our lives for discovery. Because of this connection I am often inspired to use natural elements and landscapes as subjects for my artwork. I love being able to create something from an experience in nature and communicate the beauty and sense of peace that I get from nature to the people that view my art.
On Escaping
My Getaway was a wonderful reprieve from the business of normal life, especially in light of all that has gone on in our country and world this year. It was a treat to be in a space set out for the purpose of rest and disconnection. I was able to use the time to get away from the distractions of technology. The experience was a reminder to me to look for the simplicity and moments of beauty in my everyday life as well, and I am excited to see where this theme will take me in my next collection of artwork.
You can follow along on Jessica’s journey on her Instagram and website.
Alisha Baker
On Creativity
Growing up in a small, historic town outside of Baltimore, I spent a lot of time outdoors, barefooted and climbing trees. I chose to study illustration in Boston and after years of the busy, city life, I wanted a change of environment and pace. Austin incorporates the best of both worlds, offering a thriving urban lifestyle with the balancing presence of plenty of watering holes and green spaces to rest and reconnect with nature. Whittled Inklings came out of this transition, and this is the name I work under creatively, primarily in relief printmaking and commissioned illustrative and graphic design work.
On Nature
Nature plays a prominent theme in my print work and I draw influence from the outdoors often. Inspiration for a future project can come from taking a walk around the neighborhood, venturing out to a local trail, or on a road trip collecting imagery from point A to point B. Living in Texas, I am finding myself forever enamoured by desert plant life, especially octopus agave and prickly pear cacti in bloom!
On Escaping
My stay at the Houston outpost exceeded all expectations. I can’t remember the last time I was surrounded by absolute darkness and could look up and see all the stars so clearly. It was a humbling reminder to unplug from the screens, disconnect from social media, and take a moment to feel small in comparison to the towering trees and visible galaxy above.
The Getaway Cabin experience is deeply thoughtful in architectural design, curated amenities, and a carefully chosen, safe, and peacefully remote location. It’s a stay I would recommend to family, friends, and creatives looking for a moment of pause.
You can keep up to date with Alisha’s work on her Instagram and website.
Sophia Yeshi
On Creativity
I’m an illustrator and graphic designer from Baltimore, MD living in Brooklyn, NY. I create work that’s bold, colorful, and demands attention featuring Black Women, Women of Color, and the LGBTQ+ community. My goal is to create work that comes from an authentic place and resonates with my community.
On Nature
Being in nature allows me to slow down and escape the hustle and bustle of life in New York City. I have fond memories of going hiking in the woods as a kid and the way I would enjoy conquering the forest, finding waterfalls, feeling disconnected from the world. I’ve gotten away from nature as an adult and being back in it was a reminder of how much a change in environment can do for your mental health.
On Escaping
I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Getaway. I especially appreciated being able to be still and reflect, which is what I ultimately chose to illustrate. Being in the cabin, I didn’t even want to pick up my phone or laptop, I wanted to be in the moment and just soak up the time in nature. I was inspired to get away from the city more often to give myself free liberty to create.
You can keep up to date with Sophia’s work on her Instagram and website.
Ready to plan your own creative escape? Book your Getaway today.