A Brush with Nature: Abstract Naturalism and The Painting of Life

New Orleans-based painter and admired children's author Alex Beard is the creator of a unique style of painting called "Abstract Naturalism," which combines abstract expressionism with naturalist environmental art. His precise yet abstract visual arithmetic is why many consider Alex Beard a successor to the school of visual mathematicians championed by M.C. Escher. Inspired by his travels, wildlife, and recurring natural patterns, Beard draws and paints intensely colourful, detailed interpretations of the world around us. Included in this lavishly produced book are works made over the past 25 years, and a handwritten introduction that illuminates Beard's fascinating philosophy of the interconnectedness of life, art, and mathematics. This magnificent collection of drawings and paintings will have wide appeal, pleasing not only art aficionados, but those whose enthusiasms range from the environment to mathematics.

A painter and illustrator, adventurer, best-selling children's author, world traveler, animal conservationist and filmmaker,Alex Beard has emerged as one of his generation's most creative, prolific and accomplished artists. Born in New York City in 1970, Alex was encouraged to think creatively from a young age by his uncle, Peter Beard, the acclaimed wildlife photographer and conservationist, and his mother, Patricia Beard, an accomplished author and magazine editor. Alex has had several solo exhibitions in New York, Los Angeles, and as far afield as Hong Kong. His drawings and paintings are scattered around the world in public and private collections. His open studio in New Orleans is a destination for visitors to the city.