Karen Newman White's fascination with wetlands began early with a small swamp full of tadpoles and pussywillows that just had to be explored on her way home from school. Today, setting out the mist nets in early morning gives her the opportunity to enter into the world of wetlands and prairies and to watch the unfolding days stretch into seasons. Observing the interactions within the natural world has created the desire to share these wonders with everyone and inspires her artwork. Teaching children and young adults about our connection to the earth began with her family. She then spent several years on the staff at the Plano Independent School District Environmental Learning Center and now enjoys here work as a volunteer nature interpreter and bird bander at the Heard Natural History Museum and Sanctuary.