Vaughan Pursell Spanjer: From pageants to paintbrushes and being inspired by Alabama's outdoors

In this premier episode of Afield, presented by Gusto Hunting Preserve, host Cristiana Roussel sits down with acclaimed wildlife artist and Alabama native Vaughan Pursell Spanjer. Broadcasting from the scenic backdrop inside Vaughan's studio at Pursell Farms in Sylacauga, Alabama, this conversation weaves together themes of Southern heritage, outdoor living, and creative purpose.

Vaughan’s journey begins on a 3,200-acre family property filled with creeks, hills, and hardwoods—an Alabama outdoor paradise that deeply informs her work. From barefoot childhoods chasing crawdads to painting blue herons and bird dogs, Vaughan’s connection to nature is not just nostalgic—it’s foundational. Her wildlife-inspired art reflects not only the biodiversity of the South but also a reverence for the land, instilled by a creative family and a lifestyle immersed in nature.

Vaughan shares with Christiana about how her early dreams of fashion design took her from Auburn University to the fast-paced world of New York City, working for boutique designer Adam Lippes. But the grind of the industry and a season of infertility led her to a pivotal moment of reflection. While on bed rest, Vaughan reconnected with her artistic roots, starting with charcoal sketches, moving into self-taught watercolor, and ultimately creating a body of work that now graces homes, galleries, and retreats across the South.

Listeners will be inspired by how Vaughan balances motherhood, artistry, and outdoor stewardship. She opens up about her faith, the influence of Southern topography, and the power of saying no to perfectionism. Her storytelling is peppered with reflections on creativity as a spiritual practice, the legacy of family, and the unique light and textures found only in the South.

This episode also highlights Vaughan’s role as the founder of Hearts of Rest, a women’s faith-based creative retreat hosted at Pursell Farms. The retreat focuses on restoration, creativity, and community, making use of the natural surroundings to create space for women to reconnect with themselves and their purpose.

A special moment in the episode: Vaughan’s recent artist residency in Northern France, which added new dimensions of looseness and abstract inspiration to her classically Southern style. Still, she always returns to her roots—specifically, her “secret place” at Pursell Farms, a mountaintop view where she finds peace, prays, and reflects.

Whether you're a fan of wildlife conservation, Southern landscapes, outdoor living, or simply the art of storytelling, this episode offers a beautiful reminder of how the outdoors can shape our creativity, faith, and sense of purpose.