An accomplished watercolor artist, Mona Houle, has faced numerous wildlife encounters while pursuing her passion for plein-air painting. From being pursued by a bull moose to narrowly avoiding a stampede of bison, these experiences have not deterred her from seeking inspiration in nature's wildest corners. Houle’s artistic journey takes her to remote locations where she captures the essence of animals in their natural habitats.

Houle is among the highlighted artists at the inaugural Sonoran Arts Festival, set to take place from March 21-23 at The Holland Community Center in Scottsdale. Organized by the nonprofit Sonoran Arts League, this festival showcases 70 artists from the region and beyond, along with live performances, culinary delights, and fundraising opportunities. One of Houle’s notable works, “Iguana Be Alone,” graces the promotional materials for the event. This lively piece was born after an encounter with a curious iguana during her visit to a Florida botanical garden. Her paintings often narrate tales, whether they stem from personal wildlife adventures or flights of imagination.

Houle's artistic style evolved significantly over time. Raised in Connecticut, she discovered solace in painting and drawing. Following a career shift due to a car accident injury, she embraced watercolors while residing in Atlanta. Initially thriving on eBay with dog portraits, she later transitioned to Arizona, where some viewed watercolors as a casual hobby rather than serious art. After experimenting briefly with oils, she returned to watercolors in 2015, finding joy in their transparency and unpredictability. Today, Houle shares her expertise through classes at the Sonoran Arts League Studio and encourages others to embrace creativity without preconceived limitations. At the festival, attendees will discover her unique blend of wildlife-themed watercolors and silks.

Creative expression holds boundless potential when approached with an open mind and adventurous spirit. Mona Houle exemplifies this principle, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation. Her work invites viewers to connect with the beauty of nature and the power of storytelling through art. By inspiring others to explore unconventional methods, she fosters a community that values imagination and authenticity above all else.