Banjie Getsinger Nicholas
Nature has been the strongest influence in Banjie Getsinger Nicholas' life and art since her early childhood in rural Northwest Connecticut. The second of five children, she grew up surrounded by creative parents and siblings in a time and place that allowed children considerable freedom and independence to experience the outdoors. During this time her observations of birds, plants and insects formed the foundation of what excites her as an artist today.
In 1989 Banjie first experienced raising and releasing a baby catbird which eventually led to her acquiring state and federal permits as a wild bird rehabilitator. At this time she began attending college where she focused her interest on biology and art graduating from the University of Connecticut in 2001. From early spring to late summer she is rarely without a basket of baby birds being fed throughout the day until their eventual release. These birds provide much inspiration for her work which frequently features eggs, feathers and nests.
Banjie's other strong area of interest in metamorphosis - realistic and metaphoric. For many years she has raised Cecropia,, Promethea and Luna moths and hundreds of Monarch, Swallowtail and Painted Lady butterflies sharing the thrill of observing the stages of metamorphosis with anyone who is interested. In 2002 Banjie was awarded a Martha Boschen Porter Grant. She then earned certificates in Botanical Illustration and Natural Science Illustration at the New York Botanical Garden. She currently teaches silverpoint and egg tempera in a variety of educational facilities and her studio in Warren, CT.
Birthday Wishes
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Nun's Cap Orchid
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Moment to Moment
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Polyphemus
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