A Human Perspective
Outdoor inspiration
Curiosity drives many of my hobbies, and I love learning about the area around me wherever I am. When I began backpacking in 2019, I knew I had to include a sketchbook in my kit to capture the experiences and beauty of our adventures. What began as a way to embellish my hiking journal became landscape sketches, and eventually a regular art practice at home. Slowing down, even if for a short time, to make art has brought mindfulness to my outdoor activities, a way to appreciate more details. Sometimes I paint what I see, other times what I hear or feel in a place. Out there, the experiences along the way are worth more than the final product. The goal is to notice.
Finding My way
Most people know me by Jessica Wynne, but I prefer to use my first and middle name for my art. I spent my childhood in Washington and Oregon, soaking in the misty winters and bright summers. My family did not hike often, but we had horses and I grew up competing in long-distance endurance rides. I've always been inclined towards creating, and I wanted to be an illustrator (and a teacher, author, veterinarian, and briefly, landscape architect) when I grew up. Trying to be realistic, I studied Graphic Design in college, eventually realizing it wasn't for me. I affectionately refer to myself as an Art School Dropout. When I met my husband, we started hiking and realized we wanted a more active life together, in nature.
Hiking, cycling, and being outdoors became a big part of our life when we had children. Bringing my sketch kit along called me back to art and open creativity. Overcoming perfectionism to allow space for growth has been an important part of my creative journey. In a world of endless doomscrolling, nature and art give me a place to be human, to be curious and expressive. My memory of places and experiences are bolstered by sketching and journaling onsite, and I hope to inspire others who feel art is out of reach for them to pick up a brush and see what happens.
Photos by Justin Wynne
I started learning digital photography 20 years ago in a high school class. Since then, I have photographed weddings, parties, people, equestrian events, and many of our hikes and travels. I often use my own photographs as inspiration and references. Click any thumbnail below to visit my Flickr photography site.
Get in touch
The best way to contact me is via the contact form here or through Instagram DM ♥