Hello, I'm Alena! (she/her/they/them)
I'm a conservation illustrator, wildlife scientist, photographer, and science communicator currently living and learning in beautiful coastal British Columbia, within the unceded territories of the Lkwungen-speaking peoples and the Songhees, Esquimalt and WSÁNEĆ Nations.I'm passionate about the complex interconnectivity that exists within all aspects of our shared world. I'm driven through my art and research to find things that connect us all, and use them to inspire action, bring optimism, and find sustainable solutions that benefit nature AND empower communities.
Raising Funds For Charity
I started Owl & Bear Studio as a way to celebrate my love for wildlife, engage the public in conservation, and support charitable causes I care about. A little over 4 years ago (on May 11, 2018), I received my very first pin design in the mail. I had no idea at the time what a wonderful and unbelievable journey I was embarking on - one where I got to make art, explore new methods of science communication, and support conservation in a new way.
Since May 2018, we’ve raised over $40,000 CAD for charity through Owl & Bear Studio - all thanks to your wonderful support and encouragement!
This total includes the 25% of each pin that I donate to different causes, 30% of calendar sales, fundraiser items that I launch a few times a year for specific causes, group charity seconds sales organized by wonderful collaborators such as @shopshoal and @ohjessicajessica, and more.
Countless thanks to EVERYONE who has helped make this possible along the way - including all my customers, fellow artists who have supported me, family/friends who have put up with me always packing orders (and trying to sell them stuff at every opportunity, haha!), and to each and every person who has cheered me on along the way. You are all amazing!
Science, Photography & SciComm
As well as my illustration efforts through Owl & Bear Studio, I also work as a wildlife conservation scientist, photographer, and science communicator. I invite you to view my photography portfolio and learn more about my conservation work at alenaesphotography.com :)