2-22-22 The Freedom of Flight

 In my personal opinion, art is defined as the following: self expression and the universal language. Art is both those things I mentioned. Art is a way that we can feel connected with those around us. How neat is that? Art can connect us by feelings, emotions, and more. Throughout my side hobby of art and the classes that I am taking, I have realized that art is all around us. Art is nature and nature is art. Not only can art connect us with each other, art can help us connect with nature. Albeit, nature is everywhere. Being able to get out in the environment and see the water, hear the birds, and smell the fresh air is enough to inspire me.

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Just recently I was able to complete an artwork for the National Junior Duck Stamp competition. I was very excited to complete this project because I have done nothing like this before. This was a perfect opportunity to combine my love for art, nature, animals, and a little bit of writing.

Just being out in nature was enough to gain more inspiration and insights for this little project of mine. I was able to take some photographs of the species of duck I chose -Northern Pintail. Photos were used to help inspire my art and forward this project. Northern Pintails are gorgeous birds that display so many unique colors, patterns, and feather texture. I was very amazed at the beauty of these avians.
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The message behind the Duck Stamp competition is to urge students to better understand and comprehend conservation. Conservation is a much needed thing. With the destruction of the wetlands, species of waterfowl are being highly affected. It’s not just limited to the waterfowl, many plants are being hurt as well. Pressing conservation will help save these animals and plants that call the wetlands home.

“Nature is more than just the colors that surround, it is the personality of each unique animal. We must conserve that to impact the future.”
-jettAV8R

That quote listed above was my statement of conservation. To me, nature has always had a deeper meaning than what is present. Nature is gorgeous and colorful, but the animals is what makes it beautiful. They all have unique personalities just like that of a human. Whether or not the animal is big or small they all make this world an amazing place to be. All animals need to be protected and helped so that they will continue to thrive. The tiniest organism makes a big impact.
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Whether or not I win this competition or not I have certainly learned something from this. I have learned that animals are gorgeous creatures and we need to do all that we can to help restore, protect, and ensure that they stay healthy. Doing our part in keeping the environment healthy will allow generations to come of animals, plants, and people to enjoy this world.

“Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it.”
-Confucius

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