passion to know and explore the miraculous from the tiniest wonders to the infinitude of miracles of the universe. I was drawing all of my life, but never thought much of it. While at the University of Minnesota, I took a walk along the Mississippi River; a late wet crusty snow still coated the banks. I noticed one small plant that had melted its way through the snow. I had a small watercolor set with me, and I rendered it on the spot. I showed my small watercolor of a cheese mallow to my boss at the Bell Museum of Natural History where I was a guide, and he said, “You’ve got talent” and offered me a job as a scientific illustrator to do pen-and- ink renderings of plants of Minnesota. And so it began. And it has continued ever since in museums, nature centers, state parks and ultimately with my serving as Artist-In- Residence in 7 National Parks. And along the way I have lived an adventure- filled life bedazzled by literally thousands of amazing people. My journey is showcased in “Wonderlust,” from my early sketches and renderings, through scientific illustrations, and expressions interpreted using a diversity of media. Thank you for coming along. It’s not over yet, and I will continue to seek understanding. Onward into the Mystery, Sidney Wildesmith / Artist-Naturalist
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