It’s a fact widely accepted that many currently living in and around Asheville, North Carolina are transplants. I have even heard a true native describe himself as a “white rhino”. The truth is, the mountains draw us here, the forests, the rivers and waterfalls; as a city we are pretty obsessed with mother nature. No where is this more apparent than among the galleries and studios lining the streets.
Prowling through the River Arts District means you will surely find yourself lost in a forest (whether acrylic or watercolor) and you will come across a creature peaking at you around a frame (maybe even more than one). Today’s piece from our October Artist, Christa Briana, is a fantastic example of our city’s fascination with nature.
“The Scent” by Christa Briana
A couple years back, Christa was commissioned to create an illustration that incorporated black birds, foxes and hares. The result is, without a doubt, a classic of Briana’s collection. In what one might call her “normal style”, she created a scene that is in turns whimsical and threatening.
Upon first inspection, the creatures almost appear to be frolicking playfully, exactly as you might imagine a fairy tale would portray them. However, taking a closer look reveals a darker, yet more realistic motivation: the hunt.