Change
Deborah Trent, 2024 · Watercolor / Gouache on paper
I titled this piece “Change” to capture the uncertainty of what the future may bring. Change is constant, but its accelerating pace—and the cascade of stressors on wildlife and ecosystems—leaves too little time to adapt. I painted the coyote as an innocent witness, looking out at a world speeding past.
Exhibited in the East Central Regional Arts Council IMAGE Art Show (Mora, Minnesota), 2024.
Inspiration
This piece reflects my commitment to preserving the environment and my awareness of the immense pressures facing wildlife, plants, and forests in their habitats. My fascination with coyotes and wolves grew as I learned about their kinship with dogs—their social structures, behaviors, and the strong bonds within their packs (families).
Artistic Process
In my sketchbook, I explored loose studies of expressions that change can evoke—fear, aggression, anxiety, confusion, even opportunity. The coyote’s vulnerability was the one that felt true, and that’s the version I chose to paint.
- Brushes: grainer/rake; round sable.
- Paints: Cadmium Red, Cadmium Yellow, Titanium White, Manganese Blue Hue, Burnt Sienna, Ivory Black, Van Dyke Brown, Yellow Ochre.
Reflections
I’m drawn to wolves and coyotes—likely because of their close kinship with dogs. I’d love to explore this subject further in pastel or charcoal.
Date of Creation
November 01, 2024