Masha Karpushina
Masha Karpushina is a Moscow born, London-raised illustrator and mural artist interested in the real and the surreal. She is driven by the power of nature, the beauty within man and beast, traditions of past generations and the essence of love.
Describe the nature around you at this moment?
Lately, bird song is the dominating backdrop to my days whenever I am home. All shades of green bursting out, framed by the weathered grey fence, with a splash of yellow from the corner. Two wood pigeons, three blue jays, a squirrel and an occasional rare sighting of the fox.
How would you describe your nature connection?
It is as essential as air. Nature heals, my grandmother used to say. Whenever you are low, turn to her, listen to her, she will heal you. To this day, I follow her advice. Nature is teacher, healer.
Where do you feel most at ease?
Alone or with my kids in the middle of a forest. Or out running on the peaks, swimming in rivers, or walking trails in mountains. Nature has laws you must respect, if you do, you are safe.
How can art help us think and act more collectively?
Art is essentially an ability to connect to your creative energy. Art can take up many forms: music, painting, cooking, dancing, etc. If you are able to connect to your inner creative channel, you will feel more grounded, full, fulfilled. You find both solace and a way to release energy that builds up within. If every individual tends to this need, we would be a far more balanced collective.
Is there anything you’re curious about right now?
I just turned 40. Right now, I am most curious to find the balance which enables you to be truthful to yourself and in turn with others - without compromising your needs.
I've also decided to learn a new dish every week in my fortieth year. So far it has been great, I love cooking, but at times, especially when I am overwhelmed or exhausted cooking for my children (for the past 14 years) has at times felt like a duty. You revert back to the old and tested, it gets tiring and thus uninspiring. Trying new cuisines and techniques has been fun, a welcome change, especially whenever I try something sweet.
What’s your top tip?
Keep your heart open. Be true to yourself.
What kind of ancestor do you want to be?
Kind. Warm. Fun. An ancestor who both inspired strength and love for life despite difficulties faced.
What inspires you every day?
My children. They are my compass. And women who I have loved and love in my life - for their resilience, emotional intelligence, inner strength, flexibility, drive, will, creativity, love - for walking through fear.
What are you reading, watching or listening to?
I often read several books at a time. Right now: bell hooks - All About Love; The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron; and Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain.
I've been listening to conversations between Esther Perel and Dan Savage on love, lust, marriage and monogamy. It’s a fascinating subject.
What question would you like to ask a fellow nature-kind?
Favourite running trails recommendations, please (anywhere in the UK)?
Could you suggest someone else or other organisations you admire that we could approach for #TheNatureKind?
Claire Scully - www.clairescully.com.
