Interview with the artist

Why the name Antilocapra Atelier?

“Well, the American Pronghorn is a special creature and I wanted to represent that in my business. A pronghorn was the first big game animal I ever hunted; that hunt had a profound effect on me as a human animal. It was a turning point in how I interact with nature. It was the moment I started participating in the food chain - started taking part in nature for the first real time. I also really appreciate the naturalists of the past and the way they named, drew and loved these creatures. I thought using Antilocapra would honor that. Atelier is the classic French word for studio or workspace and honestly I like the alliteration there, ha!”

How long have you been an artist/naturalist?

“Well, my entire life honestly. My mom always talks about how I would much rather be playing with bugs instead of dolls. I used to catch frogs, birds, snakes, fish (with my bare hands) - I just loved being in the muck. I’ve been an artist since I can remember. I’ve explored just about every medium and style there is.”

Why paint skulls?

“I’ve been trying to find the medium that truly excites me for a long time. I’ve always been hesitant to become a full time artist, until I discovered using natural canvases. For me, painting on skulls is a way to honor, not only the animal, but the natural beauty and heritage of the environments that sustain us. I think there’s nothing wrong with appreciating the beauty of these animals even after death (trophies, oh no!) - my art is meant to reflect their life and environment. I like the balance flowers, bugs, and skulls bring to my art. It reflects the lifecycle that we all live in.”