Hi, and welcome back to the Chrissie Murphy Designs Blog. As I put the pencils down on my Tree Change art series, I feel deeply grateful. This body of mixed media artwork has been one of the most meaningful experiences in my practice so far. It was the first time I brought critical thinking into the early planning stages of an art series.
This helped me consider not just how I would make the work, but why. That shift caused the series to take on an ecological aspect I hadn’t fully anticipated — one that I loved. And today, I’m wrapping up the Tree Change series and sharing lessons I hope will inspire beginner artists or those returning to art after a break.
Ecological Inspiration Behind the Tree Change Art Series
At its heart, Tree Change was about presenting birds I’ve come to love in a way that reflects what’s happening ecologically. From my lounge chair overlooking the rainforest, I see these birds — the hardy, the adaptable, the ones who thrive in human-shaped spaces.
To me, it seemed strange to see them so often and not others. I’ve developed a fondness for them, but alongside that affection I wonder: where have the rainforest birds gone? This series became a way for me to explore that question through collage, colour, and storytelling in art.
Why Working in an Art Series Helps Artists Grow
This was my first time committing to working in an art series from start to finish — and I’ve been completely converted. If you subscribe to my newsletter, you’ll already know I’ve been encouraging creatives to work this way more often.
Each piece became a stepping stone for the next, allowing ideas to deepen and evolve. Building on previous work gave me structure and helped my skills grow. If you are just starting or returning to art, a series offers focus, momentum, and a natural way to see progress over time. It’s something I encourage you to explore.
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Mixed Media Art Techniques from the Tree Change Series
One of the most joyful parts of Tree Change was how freely I could play with colour. I returned to warm, earthy tones — ochres, burnt oranges, and grass greens — and felt energised by the palette.
I also revisited materials I love: watercolour, ink, coloured pencil, and collage. After months away from painting, picking them up again felt like coming home. It brought joy back into my process in such a natural way — and I want to encourage you, especially if you’re just starting or coming back to art, to pick up the mediums that first made you fall in love with creating. Sometimes that’s all it takes to spark your creativity again. If you’re curious about how trying new art mediums and experimenting without fear can open fresh creative doors, check out my post on Trying a New Medium: How to Experiment Without Fear.
Community Contributions to the Tree Change Art Series
A special thank you to the Townsville University Hospital, who gave me hospital armbands to use in my Rainbow Lorikeet piece. Their contribution added a depth of symbolism to the work.
Injury — particularly ecological injury — is woven throughout the series, and their gesture brought that theme into sharper, more compassionate focus.
Closing Thoughts and Invitation to Grow Together
Tree Change has been a series close to my heart. It reconnected me with materials and techniques I love, deepened my thinking about my environment, and encouraged me to create with purpose.
If you’re an artist (or want to be), and you’re looking for gentle, practical support to help you grow your creative practice, I’d love to invite you to join my email community.
Each month, I share art tips, personal reflections, creative prompts, and behind-the-scenes insights to help you stay inspired and connected to your work.
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And let’s keep growing, together.
Until my next blog post, “I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received”
Ephesians 4:1.
In peace always
Chrissie xx
