"My work is visual mythology and folklore inspired by the wild, mysterious spirit of nature. I'm interested in our innate, ancient desire to connect with nature, not only in the wider world, but also through the practice of decorating our homes, buildings, and wares with its flora and fauna." Kara Valentino Ffield received a BFA in Studio Art from Auburn University in 2012 and has since worked as an interior decorator, gallery manager, and jewelry designer. She has been a full-time artist since 2018. She grows and forages for most of the plant material she references for her artwork on her miniature farm that she and her husband share with mini-pigs, chickens, dogs, cats, and a rabbit. Her home sits both in the woods and on the coast and was heavily damaged during Hurricane Sally in 2020. Having to move from the house for a year and a half taught her how much she needed nature in her life for her spiritual well-being. Now, she is slowly rebuilding and enhancing the landscape using the knowledge she gained when she received a certification in permaculture design in 2023 from Oregon State University. This approach to landscaping and gardening is all about harmony with nature and working with it to develop the land sustainably. As she's gotten to know her land more intimately, she has become more passionate about protecting the environment, which is why many of her paintings, while beautiful, also echo elements from specific habitats. Time spent outdoors fuels her work and brings her peace. She hopes that her artwork in turn transfers that feeling of serenity to the viewer and inspires them to nurture their own spiritual relationship with nature.