About

Hey! I’m Gretchen Klens.

I create art that portrays the interconnectedness of all beings and elements on Earth. When I’m not making art, I’m probably backcountry skiing, mountain biking, trail running, or enjoying a cup of herbal tea with my girlfriends. I also do communications, graphic design, website design, and marketing for two awesome organizations: Adventure East and the Alliance for the Mystic River Watershed.

I currently live, create, and play on the lands of the Tunxis people in Collinsville, Connecticut, a lil river town among hills of mountain laurels, sugar maples, and black bears.

I deeply love this beautiful, magical planet we live on, and my art is infused with that love. I hope it ripples far and wide.

mission

My mission is to create in ways that inspire people to feel the beauty of our cosmic ecosystem.

Education

Bowdoin College, Earth and Oceanographic Science

Certifications

Wilderness First Aid, American Avalanche Institute Pro1, CPR, ACA Level II Kayak Guide, Outdoor First Care, NSP Mountain Host

Professional Experience

  • Creative Content and Communications— Adventure East, 2024- present

  • Paddling, Biking, Hiking, Backcountry Skiing, and Caving Guide — Adventure East, 2024-2025

  • Guide and Instructor— Outside Perspectives, 2024-2025

  • Photographer— Ski Sundown, 2024

  • Cave Guide, USFS Thorne Bay, AK, 2022

  • College Education in Printmaking, Artist’s Bookmaking, Graphic Design, and Photography

Email me at gretchen@spiritualknucklehead.com and

follow me on instagram @ spiritual.knucklehead to connect!

with sooooo much gratitude,

Gretchen