In the Footsteps of Audubon

In the nineteenth century, ornithologist and painter John James Audubon created a pictorial record of North American birdlife. French watercolorist Denis Clavreul followed in his footsteps, recording his journey in journals and hundreds of original paintings. In the Footsteps of Audubon combines Clavreul's watercolors with Audubon's journals and paintings to showcase the landscapes, animals, and plants that Audubon encountered on his travels. Clavreul sketches birds in the wild with rare dexterity and documents his encounters with people who live with nature, connecting the past, present, and future.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 01 November 2022
Publisher: Princeton University Press

In the 19th century, ornithologist and painter John James Audubon embarked on a remarkable journey across North America, aiming to create a comprehensive pictorial record of the region's birdlife. Spanning from Louisiana and the Florida Keys to the Gulf of Saint Lawrence and the cliffs of the Yellowstone River, Audubon's mission was a monumental achievement in American art. Over a span of sixteen years, he meticulously documented his own journey through journals and hundreds of original paintings, capturing the beauty and diversity of bird species in their natural habitats.

Following in the naturalist's footsteps, renowned French watercolorist Denis Clavreul embarked on a similar pursuit. In his book, In the Footsteps of Audubon, Clavreul brings together a stunning collection of approximately 250 watercolors, alongside illuminating excerpts from Audubon's journals and several of his paintings. With a keen eye for detail and a painterly skill, Clavreul reimagines the landscapes that Audubon encountered, as well as the animals and plants that he depicted in his art.

As an ardent ornithologist, Clavreul showcases his exceptional talent for sketching birds in their natural environments with remarkable dexterity. He captures the essence of these feathered creatures, bringing them vividly to life on the pages of his book. Throughout his journey, Clavreul also documents his encounters with people who live in harmony with nature, many of whom are actively engaged in preserving the environment. Drawing on his dual expertise as a biologist and an artist, he weaves a profound connection between the past, present, and future, offering insights into the delicate balance of ecosystems and the importance of conservation.

In the Footsteps of Audubon is a captivating and deeply evocative journey that invites readers to see the natural world through Audubon's eyes and to perceive it with fresh perspectives. It serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Audubon's work and a reminder of the profound beauty and fragility of our planet. Through Clavreul's meticulous artistry and insightful observations, this book offers a profound appreciation for the wonders of nature and a call to action for preserving the delicate balance of our ecosystems for future generations.

Weight: 1588g
Dimension: 251 x 312 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691237688