Nathalie Aall

I have always been drawn to the natural world and find fulfillment in depicting the forms of life that inspire me. After spending my youth drawing every animal and plant I found fascinating, even down to the smallest insect, I pursued my academic career in biology and conservation ecology. My career trajectory often felt the opposing pulls from the two fields that I love: art and biology. It wasn’t until after I received my Master's degree in Biological Sciences in 2011 that I realized my path was not a forked road leading to one or the other, but was instead a rewarding journey to find creative ways of demonstrating they are often one and the same.

         Now my path employs the bonding units between art and biology to celebrate the beauty in nature. After obtaining my certificate in Natural Science Illustration from the University of Washington in Seattle in 2016, I now live in the awe-inspiring Sonoran Desert in Tucson, AZ, where I serve as the Artist in Residence for the local NGO, The Biodiversity Group. I am joined by my supportive and equally nature-loving biologist husband and two furry daughters, Easel and Maya. 
                                                                                                         -Nathalie
                                                           

  Through my art, I aim to create works that will increase public awareness of often overlooked animals and encourage sustainability and conservation efforts in viewers both young and old. To me, the meshing of biology and art is essential in communicating the beauty and importance of the natural world.​​

Check out my story on Arizona Public Media's
Arizona Illustrated series: