Red-Backed Salamanders have always held a special place in my heart. Found in the mossy, wet forest floors of North America, they were a constant source of fascination during my childhood. I spent countless hours flipping over decayed logs in search of these lively little creatures. For me, they’ve come to symbolize curiosity—the thrill of discovery and the quiet magic of the natural world.
That’s why I was especially excited to create this one-of-a-kind painting for my childhood friend, Noah Johannis, to be featured on the cover of his children’s book, Alexander the Salamander. The book is a small collection of fables, each intended to teach a moral lesson in a thoughtful, engaging way. It was an honor to contribute a piece of art that visually captures the heart of the stories Noah has written.
This painting blends my love of wildlife with personal history. It’s more than a scientific illustration—it’s a reflection of where I come from, the friends who shaped me, and the small wonders that inspired me to become both a biologist and an artist.
The original Red-Backed Salamander painting is now available for purchase here on my website. If you’re someone who loves nature, storytelling, or simply appreciates the beauty of the forest floor, I hope it speaks to you the way these salamanders have always spoken to me.
