Crafting Nature’s Beauty with Artistry
About Antler Artistry
Inspired by the beauty and rhythms of nature, Antler Artistry follows the journey of a river—from its source in the mountains, through lush forests and meadows, down to the estuary, and finally out to the open sea. Each piece of my artwork captures a moment in this journey, whether it’s the serenity of a forest or the vibrant life of the ocean floor.
I create artwork, prints, crochet, and unique jewellery crafted from sea glass, collected by hand from local beaches. Every item is a reflection of nature’s raw beauty, transformed into something timeless for you to enjoy.
The Journey
Swipe through the slide show to follow the journey of the river.
The Source
The source of a river, often referred to as its headwaters, is the original point where the river begins. This can be in the form of melting snow, springs, or rainfall that collects in highland areas, such as mountains or hills. The source plays a crucial role in shaping the river’s flow and ecosystem as it journeys downstream through various landscapes.
The Broadening Stream
As the river journeys beyond its mountain source, it widens and deepens, gathering strength from tributaries that flow into its path. Surrounded by towering forests, the river becomes a lifeline for the vibrant ecosystems along its banks. Tall trees lean over the water’s edge, their roots intertwined with the land, while wildlife thrives in the shelter of the forest canopy. The river’s flow is steady but powerful, creating a peaceful oasis that marks the beginning of an adventurous journey downstream.
The Waterfall Drop
In this section, the river encounters a series of steep drops and turbulent passages, creating powerful waterfalls and rapids. As the water accelerates, it crashes over rocky ledges, forming foaming cascades and swift currents. The force of the flow carves deep channels into the landscape, shaping the riverbed with each surge. This dynamic zone, marked by hydraulic jumps and step pools, represents the river at its most energetic—where turbulence and velocity combine to churn the water into white spray.
The Slow Reach
As the river emerges from the rapids, it enters a peaceful stretch, where the water slows and widens as it flows through open meadows. The once-turbulent currents give way to gentle ripples, mirroring the calm and open landscape. Soft grasses and wildflowers line the riverbanks, swaying in the breeze, while the water lazily meanders, reflecting the sky above. This tranquil environment, with its flowing curves and soft light, inspires the more delicate aspects of my designs—capturing the fluidity and grace of the river as it moves toward its next destination.
The Estuary
As the river reaches the estuary, it merges with the tides, creating a place where fresh water and salt water meet in a dynamic balance. The river expands into wide channels, weaving through salt marshes and wetlands, where brackish water nurtures a diverse array of life. This is a zone of transition and transformation, where the currents slow further, and the landscape shifts between land and sea. The shapes and patterns of tidal flows, shifting sands, and flowing waterlines inspire my designs—capturing the interplay between fluidity and structure, echoing the estuary’s natural harmony.
The Beach and Sea
The shoreline, adorned with shifting sands and rocky outcrops, reflects the ever-changing tides and the dance of waves that crash upon the shore. Here, the air is filled with the sounds of seagulls and the salty scent of the sea, while the gentle surf reveals treasures like sea glass, shells, and driftwood, remnants of the ocean’s journey. This coastal environment inspires my creations, from the smooth contours of the stones to the fluid lines of the waves, capturing the beauty of nature’s interplay between land and sea.
The Kelp Forest
As we venture beneath the surface, the river’s journey transitions into the enchanting world of the kelp forest. Here, towering kelp plants sway gracefully in the currents, creating an underwater oasis teeming with life. This rich ecosystem provides shelter for a myriad of marine species, from playful sea otters to vibrant fish darting through the swaying fronds. The intricate patterns and textures of the kelp inspire my designs, echoing the natural rhythm of the ocean. The interplay of light filtering through the water and the vibrant colors of marine life influence my artwork, capturing the beauty and complexity of this underwater habitat.
The Ocean Floor
At last, the journey reaches the ocean floor, a mysterious and fascinating realm hidden beneath the waves. Here, the landscape is a tapestry of textures, from the soft sands to the rugged rocks and vibrant coral formations. The ocean floor is home to diverse life forms, each adapted to the unique environment, from graceful sea cucumbers to colorful anemones. The interplay of light and shadow, along with the intricate patterns created by the ebb and flow of currents, serve as a profound source of inspiration for my work. This hidden world fuels my creativity, reflecting the quiet beauty and resilience of life beneath the surface, guiding my designs with a sense of wonder and connection to the depths of nature.