The temperatures are rising, we are thawing, and while it may be too early for a classic case of Spring Fever, we feel the first spark of possibility in the air, that gentle reminder that longer days, time outdoors, and fresh beginnings are just around the corner. This week is made even better because we have the privilege of introducing the latest artist to join the Well + Wonder team, Anna Benifield. Anna is a collage artist and naturalist based just outside of Atlanta, Georgia. Inspired by the work of early 19th-century naturalists—most notably John James Audubon—she creates layered, hand-cut paper pieces that blend careful observation with creative interpretation. With a background in design and natural history, Anna approaches each piece with both precision and curiosity, breaking her subjects down and rebuilding them through layered, painted papers. Through her art, Anna invites viewers to slow down, look more closely, and reconnect with the beauty and complexity of the natural world. She lives near the Chattahoochee River with her husband, three children, and a lively mix of furry and feathered companions. Anna's inaugural Well + Wonder release is THURSDAY, February 19th, at 10 am Eastern time. (mark those calendars) BUT until then, read all about the artist behind the cut paper, scissors, and glue in our latest post, Pardon Me, Anna Benifield?
What is currently on your nightstand?
A never-ending stack of books I am reading, my journal, and framed photo of my three kiddos when they were toddlers (they are all teens now) – and in the warmer months a bud vase with a flower from our garden.
Who is your biggest influence as an artist and why?
I am deeply inspired by naturalists of the early 19th century – most notably John James Audubon. My work is a conversation with his: same subjects, different lens. Through a feminine, contemporary perspective, I approach each bird not simply as a specimen, but as a subject for layered, expressive interpretation. Southern folk artists are a close second. I love their use of unconventional techniques and how they balance whimsy with deeper meaning.
Tell us about your childhood. What is the most memorable moment as a young person?
As a true child of the 80’s I spent most of my childhood outside – and it was magical. We lived down the street from my grandparents who lived on 50 acres with two stables. One of my favorite memories is staying up late when I was seven to watch our horse, Maggie, give birth. She had a healthy filly we named Cricket, because she was so bouncy and full of energy. I remember lying awake afterward, thinking about what a miracle it all was.
If you could only have one supply in your art studio, what would it be and why?
My scissors! As a cut-paper collage artist I cannot live without them.
What is your favorite room in your house? Describe it.
Honestly it changes with the seasons. In the spring and summer, I love spending time on the patio in our backyard – bonus that it is just outside of my studio space. In the fall and winter months I gravitate toward our kitchen. It is the family hub and has the coziest breakfast nook.
What is your biggest score online?
A vintage Audubon reference book I had been hunting for. It is used, dog-eared, and perfectly imperfect.
What is the benefit of buying art through a collective?
It removes intimidation and replaces it with trust. A good collective curates for quality, and connection between the artist, the work, and the collector.
What do you recommend for those that are new to buying original art?
Start with what you feel connected to. There is no wrong answer in buying art. If you love it and keep coming back to it – it is meant to be!
If you have the entire day to spend in an art museum, which one and why?
Any natural history museum! I know this is technically not an art museum – but I cannot resist a room full of taxidermy. I also love the African art and Folk art exhibits that are on permanent display at the High Museum of Art here in Atlanta.
What is your favorite hotel and what makes it special?
The Colony Palm Beach hotel is my absolute favorite. My husband and I spent a few days there for our recent wedding anniversary, and it was delightful. It is pink, and whimsical and perfect in every way. Bingo nights by the pool with a cocktail were our favorite.
If you were a lipstick color would you be red, pink, or clear and why?
Pink. It’s classic and cheerful.
I can never get on a plane without….
Lip-gloss, a big bottle of water, and my journal. I find that flying gives me a great chance to reflect and write. Being forced to sit still can do that sometimes.
How did you get into the world of art?
Through design first. I studied industrial design at Georgia Tech and worked as the lead designer for a large CPG for years. I think of art and design as close cousins. Design is often about solving a problem, while art is about exploration and expression. But they overlap constantly. I also really love science and nature, and when quit my corporate job to work as a naturalist, I gravitated toward teaching nature journaling - eventually realizing that creating art where science, storytelling, and design overlap was my calling.
What do you do to relax?
Spending time in nature. Whether it is hiking with our dog Cody, birdwatching, or gardening – being out in the sunshine and fresh air is the absolute best way to relax and recharge.
When do you get the biggest surge of inspiration?
I like to take myself on little field trips when I feel stuck. Whether it’s an estate sale, a museum visit, or the botanical gardens, seeing something new always gives me a spark of inspiration.
Prediction for the Color of 2027?
I think we are due for a nice duck-egg blue.
What is your idea of a date night? Dinner and a movie or dancing all night?
I love to dance and have spent many nights out on the town when I was younger. But now that I am a mom of three teenagers, nothing beats good conversation over a meal that I haven’t had to cook.
Tell us about your favorite painting that you have created.
It’s hard to choose! I spend a lot of time on my larger pieces. I feel like I get to know each bird. They are a labor of love and it can be hard to part with them sometimes!
