"The Heart of Nature" is an enchanting piece crafted with a harmonious blend of watercolors and colored pencils on Arches Cold Press Paper, measuring 8.5 x 11.5 inches. This evocative artwork features a heart-shaped slice of a tree trunk, capturing the intricate textures of the wood with stunning realism. The central heart trunk, in varying shades of gray, brown, and white, sits firmly on the tree stump from which it was cut, symbolizing a deep-rooted presence. A vibrant green background, rendered meticulously in watercolor, evokes a serene forest setting, enhancing the organic beauty of the piece.

Inspiration came from a photograph taken at Chambers Island, Wisconsin, near the Holy Name Retreat House, captured in 2012. This scene holds sentimental value, reflecting a moment of tranquility before the retreat house was closed and later destroyed. The artist uses watercolors to create a vivid and calming backdrop, while the detailed intricacies of the tree slice are brought to life with colored pencils, making the piece visually and emotionally resonant. "The Heart of Nature" beautifully captures the timeless connection between nature and inner peace, inviting viewers to pause and appreciate the profound beauty found in the natural world.