LOOK INSIDE: Drawn from Nature: Inspiration from an Artist’s Sketchbook by Christy Obalek
Coming Fall 2026
Blending detailed observation with imaginative interpretation, the works in Drawn from Nature feature a variety of media—including watercolour, pencil, and ink—and nature-based subject matter, from towering trees to detailed studies of leaves, from charming birds to their amazingly intricate feathers.
“These pages give us a glimpse of nature’s precious gift. It is a delightful record, showing how you can capture the beauty of the wild in all sorts of sketching methods. A real treasure.”
—Harriet de Winton, watercolour artist and author
“Reading Drawn from Nature is an invitation into Obalek's own Sketchbook; birds, moths, frogs and other flora/fauna appear in pencil and then fully formed in vibrant watercolour, with accompanying text, both whimsical and informative, sure to satisfy both armchair artists/scientists, as well as full fledged plein air painters and naturalists.”
—Emma FitzGerald, author/illustrator Hand Drawn Victoria & Hand Drawn Halifax
“With an engaged mind and her pencil to hand, Christy Obalek is a genial guide to the natural environment. Her wonderful watercolours give context to the sketches, and her observations and thoughts are cheerfully inscribed round about them. Sharing her pleasure, you’ll be encouraged to grab your sketchbook and open yourself to the great outdoors.”
—Robert Amos, artist and biographer of E. J. Hughes
“Christy Obalek's playful sketches and jottings are a delight to contemplate. They will inspire you to reflect on the natural world, to travel, to observe, and to sketch and write yourself.”
—Michael Kluckner, author/artist of Winging It: Travelling Without Reservations
"What a beautiful and intimate exploration of the vast world of nature! Christy’s watercolor studies—a masterclass in painting the natural world—delight at every turn, from sandhill cranes to cranberry viburnum. Graced with charming hand-lettering, this book is both inspiring and a wonderfully calming read."
—Lilla Rogers, artist, author, speaker, instructor, former art agent
