From an homage to the cult classic Swiss Family Robinson to a night swim in a dreamy ‘where I’d rather be’ terrarium… take a trip with us to the whimsical world of illustrator Annie Davidson. We marvel at some of our favourite illustrations, and uncover the natural places that inspire her spirit.

Firstly, what’s your adventuring motto?

Always take the scenic route!

And what do you do for a crust, when you’re not exploring?

 I’m an illustrator and graphic designer, currently freelancing in a shared space with other creatives.

Tell us about a magical secret place somewhere out there in the big wide world… 

The heritage garden out my back door is pretty magical with its hundred year old trees, manicured lawns and views over the river and city.

What’s been your greatest “ahuh creative moment” in the great outdoors? How does the natural world feed your creativity? 

Probably a trip to Slovenia last year where I explored beautiful national parks, rowed on the bluest lakes I’ve seen, visited castles built into cliffs, trekked through amazing caves and finished off by catching a train through the alps. My work is hugely inspired by places like this and I’ve recently been drawing micro climates inside glass vessels featuring forests, waterfalls, woodland animals, tree-houses and underwater scenes.

Is there a must-pack piece of adventurer’s equipment you wouldn’t leave home without?

Camera – you never know what you might see out & about that inspires you. On a recent holiday I went for a beach walk and came across an amazing driftwood tee pee as well as some tree stumps covered in beautiful sculptural funghi which I’m sure will feature in a print.

Where to for the next adventure? Which place are you most looking forward to visiting?

The current plan is to go to New Zealand over new years with a bunch of friends and go on a roadtrip along the coast and probably up to the bay of islands.

Where have you not yet been that you dream of visiting?

Samoa. A friend recently went there and has photos of the most amazing water holes, islands and beaches with so much lush tropical plantation. It’s gone to the top of my wish list! I’m also dreaming of visiting Japan in cherry blossom season.

Who’s your favourite wilderness sidekick? 

My friend Cilla who loves to walk and walk and walk!

Could you credit one person from your childhood as first sparking your nature-loving spirit? 

My mum is an artist and has always collected items from nature like butterfly wings, cicadas, bird’s nests etc. to paint. I remember going to the rockpools at Sandy Gully Beach in Airey’s Inlet to forage for shells and sea creatures with her from a young age.

Why do you think it’s important for humans to encounter nature and the outdoors? 

So many reasons, but mostly to enjoy God’s best creations and be inspired.

And finally, where out in the wild have you seen the most soul-enriching natural landscape? 

So far I think I would say Slovenia. I went there this time last year and was blown away by the natural beauty there especially in the national park. Also the coastline along the Great Ocean Road – especially Airey’s and Fairhaven will always be a special place to me.