RANGELAND RESTORATION RESEARCH

BIG BEND ARTISTS FOR CONSERVATION

Inspiring Conservation Through Art

There is a unique nexus between the art world and the world of conservation. For eons, artists have shared their vision of the natural world, instilling a deep appreciation for the world around us. Conservation of wildlife and wild places is inextricably linked with art.

The Big Bend region of Texas has been a source of inspiration for artistic expression for centuries. The awe-inspiring landscapes and rich diversity of flora and fauna have been the muse for artists of all kinds, including painters, sculptors, musicians and photographers. As we connect with their work, we make the connection that inspires conservation of these natural treasures.

In 2021, the Borderlands Research Institute launched the Big Bend Artists for Conservation initiative to highlight the link between artists and conservation in the Big Bend region of Texas. By sharing their stories and their magnificent creations, we hope to inspire those who are working to conserve the Borderlands region of Texas.

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Dr. Louis Harveson and Julie Rumbelow

Photo credit: Ben Masters

Suzi’s work explores themes of sustainability through intimate drawings and prints that portray fine details of flora and fauna expanded in dreamy layers.

If there was a contest for the most interesting man in the world, photographer Tim McKenna would almost certainly be in the running.

Lindy Cook Severns is a fulltime artist who lives in West Texas, painting the landscapes she loves.

Caroline Korbell Carrington and her husband William spend a lot of time in West Texas making art that depicts the landscapes and wildlife they love.

Earl Nottingham has been entranced with photography since he was a kid. His brother gave him a Polaroid Swinger camera when he was ten, and he stalked the neighborhood cats … Read More

For more than three decades Mary Baxter has made a living as a successful artist, producing hundreds of works inspired by the desert landscapes of West Texas. She has always … Read More

Filmmaker Ben Masters believes in the power of a documentary to affect hearts and minds. “I like to equate it to going to church,” he said. “It’s one of the … Read More