NAVIGATING THE LIQUID FLOW
The Fast-Paced Art of Alcohol Ink as a Southern Wildlife Artist

Alcohol ink is a vibrant, fast-drying medium of dye and alcohol, ideal for creating intricate patterns on non-porous surfaces. Key tools for this technique include synthetic paper, blending solutions, air blowers, fine brushes, and a mask to protect against vapors for safety.

Claudia's creative process focuses on details that reflect the textures of each animal, such as the texture of scales, the softness of feathers, or the density of fur. These details are essential in portraying the life and personality of the subject. To maintain the purity of her compositions, she avoids adding backgrounds, as alcohol ink's reactive nature makes it difficult to preserve a clean, unaltered space around the main subject, just a drop around the edge of a stain will merge immediately creating a new form that not always is intentional.

The intentional position of subjects at eye level creates an intimate connection between the viewer and the creature. This perspective is inspired by her background in graphic design, where Character Design taught her the importance of engaging the viewer through direct, relatable imagery. By presenting animals in this way, she invites the audience to see them as she does—not just as distant beings, but as living spirits with whom we share this world.

Her work is heavily influenced by the similarity of Guatemala's and Louisiana's fauna and flora and the warmth of southern culture. Through careful research and observation, Benton seeks to understand these animals' behaviors, whether they are harmless or potentially dangerous. It is within their instincts that she finds inspiration, and hopes to share this with others in appreciation of the beauty and complexity of the creatures that inhabit our environment. The unexpected technique and fine details of alcohol ink enhance this appreciation.