Nature’s Canvas: Tiny Expressions of Landscapes, Life, and Learning
Celebrating the connection between art and nature while supporting the Wisconsin Master Naturalist program.
Best of Show
Top Honors in Learning Category
“Beefriend Nature” — original artwork by Theresa Berrie, Iowa County, WI; Fiber Art.
Artist’s Inspiration: “I believe Nature is sacred, so I always capitalize Her names. This belief is at the root of my art, which represents what my soul is yearning for: a deeper connection with Nature, a sense of belonging to the Earth, a wish for wisdom and healing, a belief in magical possibilities, or the joy and gratitude I feel for being alive. I hope my spirit dolls speak to the part of other people’s souls that are also yearning to feel a sense of oneness with the Earth.”
Top Honors in Landscapes Category
“Pollywog Pond Berry Bowl” — original artwork by Lisa Conley, Waukesha County, WI; Ceramic.
Top Honors in Life Category
“Rooted & Winged: Sustaining Native Life” — original artwork by Jacey Bonavia Murray, Milwaukee County, WI; Visual Art.
Bid on these items and more!
ONLINE AUCTION AND PROCEEDS
Nature’s Canvas Online Auction will run September 23-October 2, 2026
Every piece of art in this auction is a gift with purpose—donated to benefit the Wisconsin Master Naturalist Program through the University of Wisconsin Foundation.
Over 100 original pieces of tiny art in these categories:
- Landscapes: Wisconsin’s natural wonders—iconic ecosystems, beautiful vistas, special places where you feel connected to nature (bluffs, Great Lakes, rivers, bogs, prairies, and more).
- Life: Wisconsin’s living wonders—mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, insects, fish, plants, or humans connecting with nature.
- Learning: Art that promotes understanding and connecting with Wisconsin’s natural world. Inspiration can come from how we learn in nature or tools that aid learning (for example, binoculars, butterfly nets, secchi discs, augers, headlamps, backpacks).
Click the buttons below to see how you can be a part of this exciting effort!
IMPORTANT DATES
Gallery Showings: May–October 2026
Receptions: June 27, Madison; August 15, Ashland
Online Auction: September 23–October 2, 2026
We are very thankful to Master Naturalist Jennie Beck for providing the Nature’s Canvas illustrations.
