About

Hey! I’m Gretchen Klens.

I live and play on the lands of the Tunxis, Massacoes, and Mohican peoples in Collinsville, Connecticut, a small river town nestled among the Tunxis (Farmington) River, hills of mountain laurels, and black bears. I’m an artist, conscious outdoor guide, wild woman, backcountry skier, mountain biker, trail runner, cold water lover, dog mom, partner, scientist, and intuitive. My ancestors are Polish, Italian, and German.

I deeply love this beautiful, magical Earth we live on, and my art is infused with that love— it’s meant to be shared and talked about.

We are nature!

That’s why my art portrays the interconnectedness of all beings and elements on Earth.

My aim is to nudge people into deeper explorations of reality and their contribution to evolution, which includes but is not limited to their relationship with themselves and the lands and waters.

We are never alone, nor are we separate from nature. The water is our blood, the Earth is our body, our spirits burn like fire within, and the air gives us breath. The ultimate medicine is aligning with this framework. We are inherently connected with the Universe, with God, with Creation, with the sun and moon, with One Love. So, I say, let’s see it as so and create the life we truly want in our hearts... one of right relations, flow, creation, and heart-centered connections. That’s why I’m doin’ what I’m doin’.

The name Spiritual Knucklehead comes from my silliness and willingness to live with my heart rather than my ego or overly logical mind. Hehe!

Education, Certifications, and sh*t

Education

Bowdoin College, ‘23

Earth and Oceanographic Science with a sprinkle of Environmental Studies, Visual Arts, and a large dose of experience with grief and healing physical, emotional, and psychological trauma. Ja bless!

Certifications

Wilderness First Aid and CPR, March 2024

ACA Level II Kayak Guide, June 2024

AIARE 1 Avalanche Course (American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education), January 2023

Relevant Experience

  • Photographer— Ski Sundown, 2024

  • Paddling, Hiking, and Team-Building Guide— Outside Perspectives, 2024

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

  • Social Media and Marketing Manager— Adventure East, 2024

  • Cave Guide, USFS Alaska, 2022

  • College courses in Printmaking, Artists Bookmaking, Graphic Design, and Photography

I am grateful to be a part of your journey, and you mine. Truly. Thanks for being here!

-Gretchen

to connect,

email me at gretchen@spiritualknucklehead.com and

see me on instagram @ spiritual.knucklehead