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THE

Wild Spirit

COLLECTION

Artist with pastel originals of wildlife

The Heartwork

Do you have a spirit animal? You know, that one creature that just gets you—like a best friend who knows exactly how you take your tea (or coffee, no judgment).

When I search for reference images, it’s not just about finding a pretty picture. It’s about that pull—that undeniable feeling that this is the one I need to bring to life. Because some souls are meant to be seen, shared, and cherished by someone who feels them. Someone like you.

 

This collection came together over time—some pieces flowed out of me back to back, while others waited years for their moment. But every single one has something in common: they call to the soul of the person who gazes upon them. A soul like yours, waiting to connect, to be understood, and to find a place where it’s truly home.

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"Until one has loved an animal a part of one's soul remains unawakened."

-Anatole France

'Little Bandit'

Little Bandit pastel original artwork

The Piece

How easy is it to fall head over heels for Little Bandit? Oh, let’s just say I’m grinning like a raccoon who just found an unguarded picnic basket. 😏

Honestly, it’s impossible not to smile when you catch a glimpse of that mischievous little face. Perched just at the edge, this sneaky little troublemaker looks like it’s about to make its move—peeking up, full of curiosity, just waiting for the perfect moment to steal your heart (and maybe your snacks).

Let’s be real—who could resist that kind of charm? (Spoiler: not you.)

'Fierce'

Close up of the grizzley bear artwork 'Fierce'

The Piece

Oh boy, Fierce is something special.

 

This grizzly isn’t just big—it’s breathtaking. Every stroke of this artwork (over 300,000 of them—give or take, but who's counting?) was dedicated to capturing its quiet strength, rich texture, and that unmistakable presence that makes you stop and stare.

There’s a soulfulness in its gaze—a steady, grounding energy that feels both powerful and peaceful. Like the kind of strength that doesn’t need to roar to be heard. And honestly? That’s what makes this piece so mesmerizing.

'Curiosity'

Framed fox artwork 'Curiosity'

The Piece

Some creatures don’t just exist—they pull you in.

There’s something about a fox. That quiet intelligence, the way they see you, how they move with both caution and confidence. This little one has locked eyes with you, taking that first step forward—curious, bold, maybe even a little mischievous.

That mix of wonder, bravery, and quiet mischief? I knew I had to capture it. Every soft stroke of pastel was shaped to hold onto that moment forever, so you could feel it too.

 

Because deep down, isn’t that what we all long for? A connection so real, so effortless, that it lingers—warm, familiar, and just a little bit wild.

'I'll Love You Forever'

Elk artwork 'I'll love you forever'

The Piece

The moment I saw this reference image, one thing came to mind—a circle. Not just in shape, but in meaning. A perfect, unbroken loop of love.

This piece captures something words can’t quite touch—the tenderness of a mother’s kiss, the way love flows effortlessly between parent and child. We give them our whole hearts, and in return, they fill us with more warmth and joy than we ever thought possible.

It’s a reminder of that unshakable bond, a love that has no edges, no end—just a beautiful, endless circle.

'She-Wolf'

Wolf artwork

The Piece

She Wolf’ is for the strong. The ones who stand their ground, protect what’s theirs, and don’t apologize for their power. Strength isn’t just in the snarl—it’s in the unwavering spirit behind it.

Because there is beauty in resilience. In knowing when to bare your teeth and when to soften. This artwork isn’t just a portrait—it’s a reminder: You are powerful. You are fierce. And you don’t need permission to take up space.

'Effie'

Framed highland cow artwork 'Effie'

The Piece

Moo’ve on over and make some room in your heart—because this fluffy sweetheart is here to stay.

Meet Effie—the Highland coo with a gaze so gentle, you can practically feel the warmth radiating off the page. It’s no surprise she quickly became a fan favourite. I mean, just look at that floofy hair!

With over 300,000 strokes (yes, I counted… roughly), every rich brown hue and soft texture was crafted to bring her to life. The result? A piece that’s as full of heart as it is fluff.

Honestly, resisting this much charm? Utterly impossible.

'Grace'

'Grace' deer pastel artwork

The Piece

Some pieces take their time. Others? They flow like they were always meant to be.

That’s Grace. One moment, just an idea—next thing I knew, her gentle, loving presence was staring back at me, ready to share her quiet strength with the world.

With over 70,000 strokes of pastel, every layer of colour was more than just pigment—it was patience, devotion, and a whisper of something timeless. Because true beauty isn’t just seen. It’s felt.

And wherever Grace finds a home, she’ll continue to do what she does best—remind us to slow down, breathe, and see the world with a little more wonder.

'Newt'

Framed fox artwork titled 'Newt'

The Piece

Some foxes steal chickens—Newt? He steals hearts.

With those sharp, knowing eyes and warm, russet fur, this little kit is the perfect mix of intelligence, curiosity, and just a hint of mischief. You can almost hear the playful rustle beneath his paws, and feel the quiet energy in the air as he pauses—watching, waiting, thinking.

Layer by layer, stroke by stroke, I brought him to life in rich, warm hues, capturing not just his likeness but his spirit—clever, untamed, and full of quiet wonder.

Because Newt isn’t just a fox. He’s a feeling. A reminder to stay curious, stay wild, and see the world with fresh eyes.

And now, he’s waiting for the perfect home—maybe yours?

'Stretch and See'

Framed giraffe artwork

The Piece

Oh, this one is special.

There’s something about a giraffe—the effortless grace, the quiet wisdom, the way they move through the world like poetry on long, spindly legs. And in black and white? That elegance is only amplified.

With every stroke of pastel, I focused on the softness, the depth, the quiet regality in its eyes. There’s strength in that stillness—a kind of beauty that doesn’t demand attention, yet holds it completely.

 

 She’s the very definition of timeless beauty.

'Alces Alces'

Framed moose artwork

The Piece

One of the rare pieces where I was both the artist and the photographer—a true original in every sense. No prints, no copies—just one, real-deal masterpiece.

Created pre-motherhood, back when my biggest challenge was deciding how large a canvas to tackle (and naps weren’t just a daydream), this piece is a love letter to the untamed beauty of the North.

Standing in front of this 16 x 14" pastel piece feels like stepping into the Canadian wild—the towering trees, the crisp air, the kind of stillness that hums with life. It doesn’t just depict the wilderness; it holds its essence.

 

And the moose? The undisputed VIP of the forest. Majestic. Powerful. Utterly impossible to ignore.

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All artwork is the sole property of Crystal Clarke and is held under copyright. 

All images of artwork, sold or otherwise, are retained by Crystal Clarke

The content of this website cannot be used by any other party.

©2014-2025 BY CRYSTAL CLARKE ANIMAL ART

Designed with Heart

Ontario, Canada

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