In this episode, I talk with David who is a dear friend, mentor & elder that has been very inspiring for us on our own journey of cultivating a creative and resilient livelihood that flows with the nature within us. He shares about his journey from growing up with artistic parents, to traveling the world on scientific field expeditions, refining his art + craft of professional nature photography, family homesteading, his deep love of the natural world, to publishing many books over the years to share these beautiful stories. Don’t miss this one…
David Cavagnaro was born and raised in California. He spent much of his childhood roaming the hills, exploring creeks, meadows and beaches, and backpacking in the mountains. Fascinated by insects and plants, he became intimately familiar with what he later called “the land of the small,” – by the age of l4 he had his first 35mm camera for recording what he found there.
A decade of international travel as a scientific field worker, educational tourism leader, and photography instructor greatly expanded his knowledge of natural history opportunities to photograph. Photo assignments and seminar teaching led David to some of the most beautiful wilderness regions of the United States. His photographic work has become widely published in nature calendars and magazines, including Audubon, National and International Wildlife, Natural History, Ranger Rick, and Life., culminating in the publication of five books.
David is also the founder of the Pepperfield Project, a Non-Profit Organization located in Decorah, IA, promotes the health and development of body, mind, and spirit through food and gardening in harmony with nature. Pepperfield Farm serves as a living example of wellness, including an environmentally sensitive lifestyle and its symbiotic relationship with the surrounding community and natural ecosystems. The farm serves as an education and retreat center focused on wellness and the teaching of intelligent choices that support sustainable systems. Learn more about Pepperfield Project > and his incredible photos + books at Natura Light >