ARTIST STATEMENT

NANCY FALCONI

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

As an artist and photographer, I am deeply inspired by the beauty of nature and the interconnectedness of all living things. My work is a reflection of the presence I feel when connecting with my subjects, whether capturing the soulful gaze of an elephant or the delicate details of a flower. Each piece I create is a tribute to the wisdom and teachings of the natural world, inviting others to pause, reflect, and look inward.

Through my art, I aim to convey a sense of groundedness and authenticity, encouraging viewers to connect with their own creative essence. Animals, in particular, hold a profound symbolism in my work, acting as guides and allies on the journey of self-discovery and transformation. Their presence in my art serves as a reminder of the strength, wisdom, and grace we can embody when we align with our true selves.

The transition to wildlife work as a photographer and artist was sparked by a moment in an art gallery, where a piece of zebra art ignited an irresistible pull to visit Africa. While it was the zebra that initially captured my imagination, it was the elephants that left an indelible mark when I visited Africa.

On an African safari, I set out at sunrise and sunset each day, capturing over 5,000 images. Among them, the elephants stood out—not just for their sheer size, but for the profound sense of peace and presence they emanated. Their interactions within matriarchal herds, the tender bond between mother and child, and their intelligence captivated me.

 A pivotal moment occurred in Tanzania, at the Ngorongoro Crater, when two elephants emerged from the dense forest and slowly approached my stationary safari vehicle. As they came closer, I was completely mesmerized, my camera capturing every step. One elephant, towering over my vehicle, came so near that I could only photograph its eye. In a breathtaking moment, the elephant opened its small, orange eye and looked directly at me—a gaze that felt like a transmission of wisdom, a reminder to look inward rather than outward. This encounter is immortalized in my Elephants Up Close collection.

In a serendipitous twist, my journey with zebras didn’t end with the gallery painting that first inspired my trip to Africa. One evening, while staying at a small lodge in the Serengeti, I experienced a surreal encounter. Lying in bed, I heard a strange noise coming from just outside my window. Curiosity got the better of me, and I slowly peeled back the curtain, only to find myself face-to-face with a zebra. The animal was so close that if it weren’t for the window separating us, I could have reached out and touched it. This encounter left a lasting impression.

Zebra was standing next to chair looking in the window while I was in the cabin falling asleep. 

As an educator and founder of the Authentic Muse Membership, I am passionate about empowering individuals to explore their creativity and embrace their unique artistic voice. My workshops and courses blend technical instruction with mindfulness practices, creating a space where participants can develop their skills, reduce stress, and experience the joy of artistic expression. Whether teaching photography as a meditation tool or guiding students in mixed-media techniques, my goal is to inspire others to see art as a pathway to personal growth and connection.

In all aspects of my work, from consulting to teaching, I strive to create experiences that nurture creativity and promote wellness. By sharing my journey and the transformative power of art, I hope to inspire others to live authentically and courageously.