Artist. Scientist. Explorer. 

 Welcome!  

        My name is Maria Ashkin.  I was raised in the high mountain deserts of Santa Fe, New Mexico.  I am 23, and a recent college graduate with degrees in fine art and botany.  I exist in the fluidity between the arts and sciences.  My fascination with ecology and art began as early as preschool.  On the playground, I was photographed observing a significant caterpillar infestation on a fence, and for weeks following, my melted crayon paintings consisted of only caterpillar interpretations and abstractions.   My art process has changed minimally since then—I still seek precious natural moments, and can’t let go until I understand them fully through my art. 

        The desert has always impacted my art and spirit, and keeps me thirsty for exploration of wild spaces. With camera in hand, I have traveled to the Caribbean, Galapagos, and Channel Islands, Brazil, Alaska, Canada, Costa Rica, Europe, and everywhere my feet or car can take me in the U.S.  I lead outdoor educational and expedition trips for peers and children, and have been backpacking, kayaking, snorkeling, and skiing since I was twelve. 

         I dove into my artistic education with a scientific and methodical approach.  I wanted to experiment with every media I could get my hands on.  I have studied bookmaking, screen printing, graphic design, digital arts, public art, lithography, darkroom and digital photography, metal working, carpentry, bronze casting, drawing, and photo-based printmaking.  Each medium has taught me something different about myself, my art, and the world around me.  I hope this website inspires you to go outside and make art.  Enjoy!

-Maria