In every curled vein of a fallen leaf lies a quiet story of change. It is a tale of nature’s eternal reinvention. With “Changing Leaf,” I wanted to capture that story. I aimed to translate the delicate journey of transformation into a burst of color and texture on chipboard. This drawing isn’t just about a leaf; it’s a moment of personal reflection and creative rebirth.

This project began with a found piece of chipboard. I was instantly attracted to the subtle color variations on the obviously old and forgotten piece of unique paper; it had a subtle sheen and a texture that instantly reminded me of long ago. The world, both outside and within myself, was shifting shades, much like the vibrant hues I envisioned for this piece. This single leaf, full of color and standing tall, caught my attention; The pallet rich with beautiful colors, subtle gradations, and stark contrasts. I was inspired by its spirited blend of reds, purples, and pinks, and I decided to immortalize its existence. I chose chipboard as my canvas for its raw, earthy texture, which mirrors the unpredictable patterns found in nature. With each layer of colored pencil, I built up the leaf’s form, carefully replicating the gentle gradients and stark contrasts that make every natural detail so mesmerizing.

For me, the colorful leaf represents more than just a change in the season- it symbolizes the endless cycles of growth, shedding, and rebirth that define our lives. The bold strokes and delicate smudges capture the fluid motion of evolution: the artful letting go of what was, to welcome the vibrant potential of what’s to come. Much like the leaf’s transformation, which transitions seamlessly from subtle maturity to a dazzling final display, my art champions the beauty of metamorphosis. This recurring theme resonates deeply with my overall artist statement, which celebrates life’s unpredictable twists and the courage found in embracing each new chapter.

Creating “Changing Leaf”, 2024 was, in many ways, a meditative journey. At times, the colored pencils seemed to have a mind of their own- darting across the chipboard like a playful reminder that not every plan unfolds perfectly. I even caught myself chuckling at a particularly wild streak of color that defied my original sketch. It was in those unscripted moments- the accidental blurs and spontaneous smudges- that the piece truly began to live, echoing the serendipity of personal growth. Every stroke, whether meticulously planned or happily improvised, reflects a choice: the choice to honor change, however unpredictable it may be.

“Changing Leaf” invites viewers to pause and reflect on their own journey of transformation. It’s a reminder that life’s beauty often lies not in its perfection, but in its ever-changing nature– a dance between order and chaos that inspires us to grow. I hope that when you gaze upon this drawing, you’ll see a spark of your own story mirrored in its colors and textures– a whisper of encouragement to embrace change and celebrate every chapter of your creative, ever-evolving narrative.