3rd Place Winning Entry | 2025 Wildlife/Animals
Crystal Orlando, “Brute Force,” charcoal.
All images © Crystal Orlando, shared with permission.
CRYSTAL ORLANDO | 3RD PLACE
2025 WILDLIFE/ANIMALS COMPETITION
Crystal Orlando’s charcoal and graphite drawings are the result of her lifelong connection with and keen observation of animals, which she has loved since she was a child. Her drawings focus on both wild and domestic subjects, capturing their beauty and power with skill and sensitivity.
Born and raised in Central Texas, the former professional horse trainer, who holds a degree in equine science, grew up surrounded by animals, especially horses. Orlando draws on her deep familiarity with animals to create highly detailed, representational works.
But while she creates perfect renditions of the physical elements of her subjects, she possesses an intuitive understanding of what’s going on beneath the surface — the soul of the animal. She describes the best part of her work as simply being around animals, a grounding presence that continues to inspire her.
We talked with Orlando about her award-winning art and the creative energy she draws from animals.
“Take a Bow,” charcoal and graphite, 40 x 30 inches
Tell us about your artistic journey and when you first realized that art would become a central part of your life.
My mother was a commercial artist, and my early days were filled with endless drawings of animals and nature while exploring our 80-acre woods by Lake Belton, Texas. I was homeschooled, and art organically became my outlet for expression and a space to feel heard. From the beginning, I always felt it was just part of who I am.
Your work is known for interpreting wildlife's emotions. How do you convey this?
I have always felt a deep connection with animals. Sometimes they feel the need to share their space with me and I try to give them time to show me or tell me whatever it is they feel the need to express. I have been fortunate to spend time with most of the animals I draw, and that time observing them helps me bring a subject to life on paper or canvas.
“American Bison,” charcoal.
You’ve chosen to work in charcoal and graphite rather than color. What is it about working in grayscale that inspires your work?
Drawing in grayscale allows me to create dramatic illusions of depth and light. In the past few years, I have fallen in love with charcoal because of the range from dark to light and how it allows me to develop layers of texture. I still use graphite in most of the drawings, but it is no longer the main player.
Is there a message or feeling you hope people carry with them after seeing your work?
I hope my work helps viewers feel connected to animals, understanding that they are an important part of our world and that we can learn a lot from them; to remind people to take time to get back to nature.
Orlando is represented by Davis and Blevins Gallery in St. Jo, Texas, and Amaran in Jackson, Wyoming.
“Portrait of an Elk,” charcoal and graphite, 9 x 7 inches
