SPRING 2020 by ArtTour International Magazine

ONE IN TEN PEOPLE ON OUR PLANET LACK ACCESS TO CLEAN WATER As we thank and honor water as theÂ source of all life, we remember that more than a billion people on our planet do not have access to safe water, and over 2 billion people live without adequate sanitation. Around 310,000 children die each year from diseases caused by poor sanitation. That's is one child every two minutes. This issue is dedicated to the waters of our planet as the sacred gift that sustains all living things. We unite our voices, our art, and our creative energy with one intention. Let's join forces to support those working to find the best sustainable solution to provide clean water access to all corners of the world.

Viviana Puello Editor-in-Chief ArtTour International Magazine

CONTRIBUTORS

Yadira Roman, Paul Simpson, Selas Smith, James Tailor, Aser Jameson,

Katrina Sevilla katrina@arttourinternational.com

ON THE COVER

Get Featured! ArtTour International is delighted to feature artists who are making a difference. We have several ways for you to get featured. Email info@artTourinternational.com for more information.

2020

“ERA NOW” by Kyra Belán "Stardust" Oil On Canvas By Jerry Venditti

Sacred Waters

A Message from our Editor-in-Chief Dear readers, The time dedicated to this particular issue of our magazine has been, by far, the most challenging in the history of ArtTour International. It has been difficult to focus on this project, while the world has been in turmoil, pain, and uncertainty. Staying cool, even when we could feel the pain from thousands of people affected by a pandemic, took a lot of strength from every member of our team. Especially as most of us either know someone or have relatives affected by the virus. But something happened amid the storm. We discovered the best of us, thousands uniting in their efforts to help one another, creating a silver lining and the hopes of light at the end of the tunnel. We deepened our relationships, and our ArtTour International family came together closer than ever before. Then, nature took over and reminded us of what our planet would be like without pollution. Hundreds of dolphins swimming and playing near the seashores enjoyed the respite of clear water coasts without noise pollution. The sightings went viral, as if our oceans were sending all of us a message. Nature is healing itself. While humans are forced to stay inside and stop their activities, wildlife is reclaiming land and seas around the world. Just like that, we were reminded of the importance of our efforts to fight for an environmentally restored planet, to bring awareness through the arts, and to share the message of many artists who share our vision. Our mission is now renewed. We are honored to present to you "Sacred Waters," a magnificent new issue dedicated to our oceans, rivers, and planet. Through this pandemic, I have learned that, when human beings stand still, the oceans and air clear up and nature seems to come out and dance. No words will inspire you more to live an eco-friendly lifestyle and to become part of this universal environmental peaceful revolution than the works of our feature artists. The articles in this issue will also touch your heart. Soon, you will be joining us in our efforts for a world where water is sacred and appreciated as our source of life, where dolphins can continue visiting clean seashores, where nature can keep dancing, and where our children and grandchildren can join this dance.

Stay strong, steadfast, and inspired,

Viviana Puello CEO/Founder ArtTour International Publications, Inc.

INDEX

2020 SPRING ISSUE

Meet our Cover Artist!

Back Cover Artist

Agnethe Maagaard THE RAINFORESTS OF THE SEA ARE DYING

Page 18

GOING GREEN: EASY TO IMPLEMENT TIPS FOR ARTISTS Page 63

Kyra Belán

Page 10

Feautered Artists -

Alice Cescatti Alison Barrows-Young Barbara A Tyler Ahlfield Carla Kleekamp Carol Taylor Cher Anderson Cătălin Alexandru Chifan Christine Storey-Lange Ed Morét Elaine Franz Witten Evelyn Adams Fiona Campbell Hélène DeSerres Henrik Saar Howard Harris Jacqueline Domin Janice Alamanou Jason Bryant Jelena Rukavina Jim Fitzpatrick John Nieman

P-19 P-16 P-20 P-19 P-21 P-22 P-23 P-24 P-23 P-25 P-25 P-64 P-26 P-27 P-28 P-29 P-32 P-34 P-34 P-36 P-38

The Legacy of Dr. Masaru Emoto and the Hidden Message of Water

Lawrence R. Armstrong P-40 Manuela Eibensteiner P-35 Mari Carmen Fernandez P-39 Maribel Matthews P-42 Maya Vinokurov P-44 Nimi Trehan P-55 Patricia Karen Gagic P-46 Pokey Park P-39 Raymond John Westraadt P-37 Ric Conn P-45 Robin Babitt: -“The Bon Art-Petit Recipe” Art Book P-48

-“Bachuki, A Little Bumblebee in a Great BIG World”

P-50

CHEROKEE RIVERKEEPERS

“STAY HOME, SAVE LIVES” P-58 ART CONTEST

Roxana Sora Sandi Pillsbury Gredzens Shelby Willis Shifra Levyathan Wendy Cohen

P-52 P-53 P-66 P-54 P-35

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SPRING 2020

THE RAINFORESTS

by Viviana Puello

The world's coral reefs, one of the ocean's most beautiful marine habitats, is in danger of extinction because of dramatic increases in coral diseases caused by climate change and warmer waters. These once-vibrant reefs are unlike any other reef systems in the world, but current threats could render all or most of them damaged forever in as little as 20 years. A new scientific study of Caribbean marine life has demonstrated that coral species are dying off, indicating dramatic shifts in the ecological balance under the sea. The study found that ten percent of the Caribbean's reef-building corals were under threat, including staghorn and elkhorn corals. These two prominent species are now candidates to be listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Sometimes referred to as rainforests of the sea, shallow coral reefs occupy less than 0.1% of the world's ocean area. Yet, they are home for at least 25% of all marine species, including mollusks, fish, crustaceans, echinoderms, sponges, tunicates, and other cnidarians. Every square meter of the sun-drenched reef system is home to hundreds of microscopic wildlife â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all of which help keep the reef balanced and healthy. Coral reefs thrive in ocean waters that provide few nutrients and are commonly found at shallow depths in tropical waters, but deep water and cold water coral reefs exist on smaller scales in other areas. The Caribbean reefs stretch from the coast of Florida to the Lesser Antilles, and each year they draw millions of visitors from all over the world. If they disappear, so will many other species that rely on reefs for shelter, reproduction, and provision. Aside from the reef's value to humans, these irreplaceable natural wonders play an essential role in the more massive battle for ocean conservation. A healthy reef helps sweep debris off of the coastal shelf and improve the health of the

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open ocean, as well as provides a home to countless animal species. In the last few decades, the Caribbean reefs have been struck, and, without help, they may never recover. Threats to corals and other species are caused by coastal pollution, increased sedimentation in run-off water, thermal stress due to climate change, and over-fishing. Scientists explain that the Caribbean has been impacted by human development since the colonization of the Americas. Ocean pollution has caused algae to grow all over delicate corals, blocking out needed sunlight and starving the reefbuilding organisms. Algae thrive on dying coral reefs. Fish that feed on algae have reduced their populations due to overfishing, which is allowing the algae to form dense growths that prevent corals from re-colonizing. Global warming has caused a rising sea level in the Caribbean, which blocks sunlight, though somewhat more slowly. A warmer ocean is also more acidic, which can be deadly to coral and has left hundreds of miles of reef bleached white. Even worse, domestic aquarium owners in Florida have dumped pet lion-fish into the ocean, allowing this Indonesian fish to become an unstoppable predator that has all but driven out native fish. One positive note is the discovery that some healthy Caribbean coral reefs still exist in well-managed marine protected areas, where direct human impacts are reduced, allowing corals to thrive. However, marine conservation and a global effort to reverse climate change are necessary to preserve these beautiful marine habitats. Marine protected areas (MPAs) are designated areas that provide various kinds of protection to the ocean intended to promote responsible fishery management and habitat protection. MPAs can encompass both social and biological objectives, including reef restoration, aesthetics, biodiversity, and economic benefits.

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OF THE SEA ARE DYING According to the Caribbean Coral Reefs Status Report, states that regulate overfishing mainly fish key to the survival of coral reef like parrotfish, reduce human pressure on the area, and control pollution, may minimize coral decline or even reverse it. The report proved that healthier reefs are those with large populations of parrotfish in countries that protect these key fishes and sea urchins; banning fish trapping and spearfishing would result in "resilient reefs." The designation of a reef as a marine park, national monument, biosphere reserve, or world heritage marine site can offer protection. For example, the Galapagos Islands, PapahÄ naumokuÄ kea Marine National Monument, the Great Barrier Reef, Henderson Island, Palau are world heritage sites. In recent years, several solutions for the restoration of coral reefs have emerged. One of them is Coral aquaculture, also known as coral farming or coral gardening. The "gardening" process bypasses the early growth stages of corals when they

are most at risk of dying. Coral seeds are grown in nurseries, then replanted on the reef. The University of Hawaii operates a Coral Reef Assessment and Monitoring Program to help restore coral reefs in Hawaii by relocating healthy coral and transplanting it with the help of divers, to a site relatively close to the channel. While attaching the coral to transplant sites, they discovered that coral placed on hard rock grew well. There were no environmental effects observed as a result of the transplantation process. These coral restoration efforts aim at rebuilding the ecological functioning of coral reefs. Something important to keep in mind is that it is easier to protect the healthy reef, rather than try to restore it once it is affected or gone. Restoration efforts must be matched with education, outreach, and conservation, involving the public as a partner for marine conservation programs so that we can give coral reefs a chance to survive in the future.

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SPRING 2020

Kyra Belán

“Our Lady of Florida” Colored Pencil on Paper, 30” X 47”

by Yadira Roman

yra Belán is an award-winning artist, activist, and academic. Her art is grounded on environmental, social, and political issues, reaching a collective of crowds as her work has been used in political campaigns advocating for women's rights. She unapologetically asserts her devotion to women's rights through metaphorical depictions of idols that comment on violence, and female oppression. She depicts women as the compelling, independent protagonists of the story.

"During the four decades of my career as an academic and social issues activist, I have been producing art that brings attention to these issues. At this time, our Mother Earth is experiencing significant climate change problems that have been aggravated to the point of being critical to her survival. I feel that artists have an obligation to fight for Mother Earth, and plan to continue to create art that supports these vital issues. She is the only Mother we have, and she creates us out of her fertile body. We must pull all our forces together to act on her behalf. Many of my artworks, whether paintings, drawings, mixed or installations, are about social issues, and the use of color to create a certain mood or enhance a particular meaning always takes place. My colors are often intense, although the range and the nuances to convey a feeling depend on the subject matter. I try to capture and enhance the beauty of colors that Mother Earth creates. My art has always been about the beauty, majesty, and omnipotence of our planet, Mother Earth, and about the myths, symbols, and legends through the centuries that have celebrated our planet as the divine Mother. My love for her, and her beautiful animals and plants are always represented in my artworks. Whether they are created on an “Kyra Belán” Portrait Photo by Mila Bridger

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“Allegro Andante” Colored Pencil On Paper, 40” x 48”

easel, as an installation, generated on the computer, as land art, or as performance art, these artistic expressions are always about her, the divine feminine, and about women that help preserve her, or help promote the well being of the planet and the beneficial matriarchal environments for all. I have always been aware that current patriarchal civilization is not treating our Mother Earth well, and that this attitude not only deeply damages the environment but is ultimately endangering the whole planet – and the entire human race. There is a need today, more than ever, to pay attention to the leaders of the Climate Change movement, the scientific community, and the indigenous tribes. We must join our forces to save our planet, as time is running out. I feel that the artists must vigorously represent these issues through their arts. I hope that I am doing my part, and am inviting other artists to join this movement." Kyra Belán's rich educational background has played a crucial role in shaping her artistic career. With a deep, and proactive Cont. Next Page

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relationship to human development, and social evolution, Belán faces her collective head-on, and hopes for a progressive future where balance is stored in all aspects of life. "My series of portraits that are created for my exhibitions are from the Amazing Women Series, ongoing since the eighties. During my entire career as an artist and college professor, I was bothered by the high level of sexism within this patriarchal culture and the fact that women of achievement are often ignored or dismissed. In contrast, generic women that exemplify the male approved standards of beauty are used, often anonymously, to sell a variety of products. On the contrary, women of greatness and achievement were underrepresented by the press, and often ignored by history. This situation persists today. I was surprised at how many gallery or art center or museum spaces did not show any enthusiasm for the idea to display portraits of women of achievement. By featuring these women in my art exhibitions, I hope to spotlight them and to make sure that the new generation of young women realizes how important it is for them and their professional futures to be knowledgeable of the past – how much people of their gender have contributed to the improvement and advancement of the current civilization. I hope to help balance the world toward the goal of equality for all, a future society where women and girls have the same opportunities as men and boys." Cont. Next Page

“Isis of Florida Painting” Acrylic, Mixed on Canvas, 40” X 32”

“Freedom” Colored Pencil on Paper”, 40” X 48”

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“Climate Strike (Greta Thunberg)” Drawing, Colored Pencil 30” X 22”

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“Mother Earth, Changing Woman” Site Specific Installation, the Art Gallery, BC

Belán's displays of historical female role model portraiture paintings, incorporate elements of nature in supporting her symbolic storytelling in the connection of feminine strengths, and its relation to planet earth. She features bold and vibrant colors in vivid combinations that collectively synthesize her subjects. Belán fuses exotic animal and plants life with tropical hues and delicate surfaces that ignite a dreamlike sense of wonder.

“Canyon Eagle Circle” Digital Art on Paper, 40” X 32”

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"My large scale drawings, created on paper in colored pencils, feature my social issues art that explores my concerns with preserving our environment, in particular our underwater ecosystems. My first image represents my version of Mother Earth, as personified by the legendary Lady of Guadalupe, emerging out of the sacred waters of the ocean that surrounds the Americas. My next two images feature birds that are on the endangered species list, such as Flamingoes and Bald Eagles,

“Nature Goddess Sekhmet” Land Art, Key Biscayne, Fl

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“Sedona Madonna” Digital art on Paper, 40” x 34”

surrounded by underwater realms teeming with life that includes aquatic plants and animals." We are proud to have her as our Cover Artist and celebrate her continued efforts towards revitalizing our communities and environment through visual arts. "I am looking forward to my next solo show in New York at Ceres Gallery, scheduled for October of next year, for which I am already working on an installation of socially and politically charged works, including works that show my efforts to help pass the E.R.A., and reinforce the Climate Change movement, as well as to create more portraits of great women. I am also working on a new edition of my book, titled Earth, Myths, and Eco-feminist Art, Old City Publishing. It features highlights of my series of artworks, including the American Beauty Series. The Great Goddess Series, and the Adonis Series (Male Nudes). I also plan to include some of my earth art and performance art."

kyrabelan.com

“ERA NOW” Acrylic On Canvas, 40” X 30”

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SPRING 2020

Alison Barrows-Young “Sacred Water Tryptic”

“Sacred Water Tryptic”

“I

'd like my viewer to consider how much potential power we have with familial wisdom, gathered mythologies, altruistic philosophies, science, and technology. Why have we not already turned the tide of planetary destruction? The time is running out; we must move forward even if we must first recant our actions and go backward. Greed and avarice, power for the few, and survival of the moneyed must stop. We must collect ourselves and restore what we can of our beautiful planet.

'The Promise of Humanity' Our ancient World Mythologies have delved the human consciousness and have spelled out all the lessons of forthright vs. duplicitous action. Religions and spiritual codas warn against our vices. The books have been written. The movies have been made. The songs have been sung. The visions of the poets are out there. The best of us have decried and warned us against ourselves. When will our blindness end? Love is the only thing that equals survival.

“The Promise of Humanity” Inks on Carved Wood, 3D 22” X 48” X 8”

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loosed biohazards, plagues, rainforest forest destruction, animal extinction, devastating temperature, and violent weather. The polar caps are melting, and the oceans are rising as our mother earth has begun to shake us off. What if anything will survive? My heart goes out especially to the young, the indigenous peoples, wild animals, and plants; I hate that our 'civilizations,' our comforts, our e n t r o py, s e l fi s h n e s s , a n d l a c k o f connective consciousness are taking the innocent down with us. I began the conceptualization of this project in late 2019. It has been the soul focus of my daily art practice since January of this year. When I began with my ideas and drawings, my first thoughts went to depicting all the horrors that are happening to our planet and world population due to the misuse of our environment. Images of injustices and sufferings of people, animals, and natural environments are all around us, as are the facts, data and books, and articles. I have painted these things for years, sometimes “Mother Wisdom” Inks on Carved Wood, 3D 22” X 48” X 8” subtle and other times glaring in their 'Mother Wisdom' messages. Along the way, I decided I would focus on themes that During this new coronavirus pandemic, the countries run by could potentially suggest a way forward. I hope to join with female leaders are doing the best among the world's many international artists, especially post COVID-19's ruinous grasp, to populations. This is not a coincidence. Matriarchal systems will lure with beauty a newly forged vision to change our current lead us to the profound social change that is needed. As the world direction of environmental destruction." faces hunger, war, toxic environments, massive refugee populations, and viral pandemics, it is the children and the wild alisonbarrowsyoung.com ecosystems, along with their precious flora and fauna, which matters. Are our progeny destined to suffering and annihilation along with the world they will inherit from us? The mothers of the world care, familial instinct, and perspective will make a change for the better. A community thrives where it is most valuable and is organized to support it.

'Listening to The Wind' Water is essential; nothing can live without it, and yet there are places in the world where the main, and sometimes only, water source is polluted and unfit to drink. The air is unfit to breathe, and the ground is poisoned. Global greed has lead to the catastrophic situations we find ourselves in; droughts,

“Sacred Water Tryptic”

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“Listening to the Wind” Inks on Carved Wood, 3D 22” X 48” X 8”

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Agnethe Maagaard

“The Cry of the Oceans” Detail

“Danish glass artist in dialogue with nature”

hrough 20 years, she has developed her unique working methods with the glass material, processes that are divided into many subprocesses from designing and shaping, through many slum-pings and fusions to hardening and finishing. Her inspiration comes from nature, symbols, words, thoughts, and the diversity of life.

great community. Everything in nature, both the human and nonhuman part, forms a coherent whole. Therefore we as artists have a unique opportunity through our art to convey our message visually and thereby emphasize our collective duty to treat nature with respect, consideration, and humility. We must take responsibility in our everyday lives for future survival."

Storytelling with glass "I tell stories in glass, using the light as my sparring partner. My gratefulness for life inspires me. Gradually, as you grow older, you start to think more about life and what matters. Therefore, I contemplate a lot over my glass art and conveys my thoughts and messages through them. I hope that my artwork gives food for thought. The significance of the genius and what we originate from, as well as the fantastic nature in West Jutland in Denmark, has shaped us into the people we are.

www.maagaardglass.com

My passion is for what drives, captures, fills and inspires, rejoices, and creates—that which an artist can't help but notice. The sea and nature are my greatest inspirations. My most significant source of inspiration is the landscape in West Jutland with the sea, the light, and the vast expanses. Here nature is under the skin. We are part of this rugged and fantastic nature that we must take care of. As a resident of a country like Denmark with only a few kilometers to the coast, most of us have a natural and loving relation to the sea - Denmark's last wilderness.” Art as climate intermediary "As an artist, I contribute to the climate debate via my glass art on this our fantastic planet. A reminder that every positive change begins in our hearts. We, together with the rest of nature, form a

“Sacred Waters” Sculpture Glass

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“The Cry of the Oceans” Sculpture Glass

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Alice Cescatti Cescatti spent her formative years growing up in A lice New Zealand. The nobility of the ocean held a strong

presence for her during these years. Her paintings express the fragility of the ocean which she sees as a source of origin, and according to the artist they have become globally compromised with the global inattention and disrespect for its grandeur, beauty, and essential presence as humans have chosen to pollute it with the dumping of toxic radioactive waste, and plastic which in turn is harming and threatening the very existence of its marine ecosystems and marine life.

Cescatti would like to see our Oceans restored to their former natural health and glory so that they can continue to support life for future generations and to support and maintain our planet's natural balance. Alice also touches on subjects such as Migration using the symbolism of empty boats adrift and sinking in the ocean, symbolizing the frailty of refugees escaping abusive political regimes and deserted landscapes under vast, imposing skies hinting at the possible trajectory of humanities future.

alicecescatti.com

“Ocean Wound I” Acid Etched Silver Leaf Panel, 40” X 50”

“Ocean Wound” Acid Etched Silver Leaf Panel, 40” X 40”

Carla Kleekamp creative activist Carla Kleekamp exhibits a deep D utch understanding of Eastern and Western traditional art in

her delicately detailed symbolic representations of society. She has used many different means and materials to express her concerns for the environment, including aquarelles, etchings, drawings, watercolor, and engravings. Still, her primary focus is etchings on rice paper. Kleeklamp portrays the impact of social separation through spacial elements and motifs. She addresses global economic and environmental

“Save the Sea” Japanese Pencil on Rice Paper Collage, 8” X 8”

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issues to bring forth a reflection about how humankind is suppressing, abusing, and exhausting nature by exploiting it in a non-sustainable manner.

www.carlakleekamp.nl

“The Last Fish” Nijimi- Drawing, 16” X 24”

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Barbara Tyler Ahlﬁeld

a r b a r a Ty l e r A h l fi e l d , a successful fashion illustrator and established visual artist, renders larger than life realistic portraits that have a classical quality to them, with a contemporary twist. S k i l l f u l l y exe c u t e d a n d d e e p l y thoughtful, her extravagant settings bring her audience into a lavish and contemplative world. Luminous colors and luscious brushwork add a lively sense of nostalgia coupled with her acute attention to detail; every aspect of the image is captured from all ends. The textures she

“Yadira-Reign” Oil on Canvas, 60” X 48”

"Shrimp Taffeta” Oil On Canvas, 60”X36"

creates with paint seem to emerge from the surface with radiant clarity. Ahlfield uses natural elements to complement the essence of the mood of her subjects; creating an overall transcendental experience for her audience. Her background as lead fashion illustrator for Lord & Taylor allowed for years of experience in tapping into what is both alluring, and relatable to her audience, partnered with the inspiration she receives in her surroundings. She describes her home in Baltimore, Maryland, as a place that still carries the historical and classical elements that drove an American era of romanticism and elegance that is captured in her work.

www.barbaratylerahlﬁeld.com “Aquatic Highway” Oil on Canvas, 60” X 48”

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Carol Taylor “River Geodes, Showing the Map of the St. John River From Maine, USA to the Bay of Fundy in Saint John Harbour in New Brunswick, Canada”

“G

eodes are rock-like and usually spherical, their hollow insides contain sparking mineral crystals or concentric layers of minerals. Often beautifully colored, they are frequently found near riverbeds.

My geodes contain drawn, and glazed miniature sections of the St. John River from its beginnings in Maine to its end in the City of Saint John harbor, reminding us of the river’s importance in our lives, and their form speaks of the preciousness of water itself.

Women, it was slated to open at the Saint John Art Center in March 2020 until the end of April. The 'opening' and the the venue itself was closed because of Covid 19, as was the May/ June exhibition at University of New Brunswick. This virus has changed many artists lives.”

rockshoreidyll.ca

I grew from a toddler to a teenager on a country road outside the small village of Apohaqui, NB. Even then, art was a big part of my life, drawing my fashions for cut out dolls, drawing them for my friends. Later as a teen burying flat-50 cigarette tins in four places within my world to see if I would be able to dig them up when I got old. (About 30 I thought at the time, my mother’s age.) Now I look back from real age and experience, and those flat-fifties are long gone to bull-dozers. But the memory of doing it remains. Now I enjoy whatever medium I think an art project demands from thread to clay, from yesterday’s computer components to words. I attended Saint John Vocational School by the good graces of my high school homeroom teacher, Miss Crowe, who saw that I was an an artist and insisted to the principal of Sussex High that I be trained to become one. All my teachers have been my salvation, including Kay Smith, poet, English teacher. My current exhibition: PORTRAITS In And Out Of Court, (to compliment the book Carol Taylor Capturing Crime) was an exhibit of small courtroom portraits and 3 x 4 ft portraits of Brave

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Detail of One St. John River Geode

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Cher Anderson

“Missing Lynx Canadian Lynx)” Acrylic On Gesso Board, 10” x 8”

her Anderson was born in New York, raised in Mexico City, and has resided in Arizona since 1990. A professional graphic designer by trade for 30 years, she is now dedicating herself to her passion for wildlife art and photography. Throughout her career as a fine artist, Anderson has learned from the old masters by studying their technique and applying it to improve her techniques. She is an avid conservation supporter and a Signature Member and Ambassador of Artists for Conservation, Vancouver, B.C. A significant portion of sales of her art is donated to different organizations that work with endangered species and their preservation. Anderson began her journey as a fine artist in 1980, and her art has evolved into photo-realistic paintings that require the most exceptional detailed brushwork and hundreds of hours to accomplish the result. She has traveled around the world

“Aussie Banks (Red-Tailed Black Cockatoo)” Acrylic on Gesso Board, 32” X 24”

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photographing her subjects in their element and then, once in her studio, determines which represents best a special moment or behavior that is characteristic to that particular bird or animal. Mainly working in watercolors, gouache, and acrylics, she brings her subjects to life while remembering the moment when she looked into the animal’s eyes and met them for the first time. During the past 20 years, Cher Anderson has experienced first-hand the beauty of nature in all ecosystems throughout the world. She is passionate about animals and has a genuine love for horses, which she breeds and raises on her ranch in Arizona. Intrigued by animal behavior, she describes getting that one perfect photograph to be the equivalent of a surge of adrenaline felt by a thrill seeker.

www.ChersCreations.com

“The Great Debate (American Flamingos)” Acrylic on Gesso Board, 48” X 36”

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Cătălin Alexandru Chifan an independent artist, and I have a Ph.D. in Fine Arts. I “I am apply various mediums, genres, and styles. I like to paint the

beauty that is in front of us, but not everyone sees it. When I was a child, my friends called me an "artist" because I always painted what I liked. I believe in art and the beauty of Earth. I have always wanted to express the beauty of nature and everything that surrounds us. I like to paint animals and human emotions. I employ artistic techniques: pencil, oil, acrylic, and watercolor. I try to express a state of joy in the paintings I portray. Regardless of the

topic I approach, I focus on enjoying what I do and what I feel. Painting is a dream and helps people see what is truly beautiful in life."

catalinalexandruchifan.blogspot.com

“Somewhere Underwater” Oil on Canvas

“Painting Underwater” Oil on Canvas

Ed Morét J. Morét encompasses his relationship with nature E dward through large scale hyper-realistic figurative works.

Morét champions for the cause of a healthy ecosystem, wherein all living organisms live in harmony with their surroundings. His themes burst with poetic symbolism while engaging his audience's senses with vibrant tones, spacial elements, and soft surfaces. Rooted in the West Indies,

“Plastic Pollution” Acrylic on Canvas

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Morét's direct interactions with wildlife and exotic ecosystems have inspired a successful career through his clear vision and contribution to the arts.

edmoret.com

“Tranquility” Acrylic on Canvas, 36’’ Diameters

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Christine Storey-Lange “People and Places”

“S

o m e ex p e r i e n c e s h a ve n' t changed. I'm sure that man has always walked along the shore and cleansed his soul and mind in the salty air, enjoyed the constant movement of water, endless patterns of waves, and the soothing of their recurring, meditative sounds. It is these fundamental experiences that connect us to the feeling of belonging to a greater universe and knowing that everything is a part of everything ( or, we are all made of stardust). I focus on showing how man is a part of nature we ARE nature, and that we should stay in contact with it – despite, or especially in the age of technical evolution. This unites all people of the world and brings us back to a clear understanding of our unique, and yet common beginning. Painting, for me, is a process which begins with a rather chaotic state and gradually develops into a painting in which my picture idea, weaves its way through to the surface and becomes visible or perceptible. It reminds me of a speeded-up process of evolution.

“Telling Rocks and Listening Sea” Egg Tempera Oil On Canvas, 80” X 60”

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“Gentle Rage” Egg Tempera Oil On Canvas, 60” X 80”

Paint is applied in different ways, with different instruments – sometimes diluted or in pure, solid form. During the initial stage, the element of chance allows a playful approach. As the picture process progresses, the paintbrush becomes the primary tool.”

www.christine-storey-lange.com

“Rain Runners” Egg Tempera Oil On Canvas, 40” X 20”

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Elaine Franz Witten Franz Witten started E laine creating two-dimensional art

as a child when she attended classes at The Cleveland Museum of Art. She majored in art at Connecticut College, New London, Connecticut, and first discovered sculpture at Columbia University, NYC. She later studied with Jane Armstrong, Fellow NSS, Manchester, VT, and at the Carving Studio, W. Rutland, VT. Ms. Witten is a national and international award winning artist , classically trained sculptor, casting with the ancient lost wax method. Hallmarks of her sculpture are beautiful forms, creative use of negative space, and the illusion of movement. The body of her sculpture work includes figurative, animal, birds, and “antique” musical instruments, which she frequently mounts on indigenous stone bases. Elaine Witten lives in rural Vermont. Her work is inspired by living close to nature. An R. N., her anatomy knowledge, informs her figurative work. She has taught sculpture workshops at Southern Vermont Arts Center, Manchester, VT (2002-2017), and is currently teaching at Taradenarts, North Bennington, VT. She is a past Trustee of Vermont College of Fine Arts, Montpelier, VT.

www.elainefranzwitten.com “The Wild Run (Spawning Salmon)” Bronze, Base: Champlain Black Marble, 21″ × 12″ × 24″

Evelyn Adams Adams, aka Yinka, graduated from Long Island E velyn University Post with a bachelor's degree in Fine Arts. She

Jefferson Times-Herald newspaper as the third-place winner of "Victors of Survival" for the breast cancer month.

also graduated from Nassau Community College with Associate degrees in both Liberal Art/Science and Fine Art.

For more info contact:

eveadams3@yahoo.com

As a Ghanaian-American, Yinka lives between two different cultures in which she embraces both cultures. Her interest in art began as a child, sketching from observation; - she draws whatever catches her attention. Yinka continued to show interest in art during her high school days. However, she did not continue with that newfound passion until many years after graduating from high school. Today, Yinka is in the field, exploring her love for art. As a person, she likes to experience different mediums when it comes to art. Yinka has exhibited many of her artworks in the Long Island area and also internationally in South Korea. On October 1, 2015, her artwork, "Unite & Fight For A Cure," was featured in Port “The Dawn Hour of an Ocean” Acrylic on Canvas, 30” X 40”

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“A Glimpse Into A Whale's Dream” Acrylic On Canvas, 30” X 40”

SPRING 2020

Hélène DeSerres

“Water World” Acrylic on Canvas, 50” X 55”

élène DeSerres is a dynamic artist whose work traverses various interdisciplinary ranges from photography, paintings to sculptures. From a young age, she was surrounded by an environment that nurtured creativity and imagination, where she was exposed to the beauty of nature and fascinated by the animal world. Her love for flowers, diverse culture, endangered animals, and unsuspecting organic elements combines her authentic abstract work that showcases more than the beauty of this bright planet. Her techniques vary from abstract paintings, photo surrealism, impressionism, acrylic & watercolor painting to sculpture designs. Behind her efforts are grave concerns about climate change and all the bitter realities most endangered species are facing. Using various media, she models new

“Surging Whale” Mix Media on Canvas, 30” X 40”

and mysterious creations using textures, transparencies, and vibrant colors that elicit the mysteries of nature and narrates the surrealism of the images.

helenedeserres.com

“Tsunami” Mix Media On Canvas, 40” X 30”

SPRING 2020

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Henrik Saar

enrik Saar is a recognized and highly awarded international master artist since 2010 and Winner of the Medusa Aurera contest as best Painter at the International Academy of Modern Arts in Rome 2019. He sees himself as a lifetime artist, from the very beginning expressing himself in sketches and poems. "I'm an artist!" he explained this occurred after a night of dreaming about himself lying naked on the deck of a ship in stormy weather, instinctively trying to reach a transformer station placed in the front of the boat in a high sea. A life-changing dream that still is like inner energy in the art of Henrik Saar, and “transformationalism” is a word he likely uses to describe his art. "To make my pictures reflect everything I see together with my inner soul as well in one shot is my mission here in life, and I feel dedicated to doing just that." Saar paints with the same three oil colors plus black and white but feels it’s challenging to create something surprising and different every time. According to the artist, each of his pictures makes him feel like a visual vizard creating them because each of them filled up with so much unspoken content, which may be even more real than what you can put on words. Very often, he creates images of, what is happening tomorrow, and that's part of the visual vizard thing: "Painting has a genie effect. The greatest inspiration has been Salvador Dali, symbolism, Kirkeby, Van Gogh, and Munch."

www.henriksaar.dk “Learning To Fly” Oil and Acrylic on Canvas, 40” X 30”

“Law of Attraction” Oil on Canvas, 40” X 30”

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“My Alter Ego” Oil on Canvas, 20” X 10”

SPRING 2020

Howard Harris

by James Tailor

oward Harris brilliantly combines technology and art to expand the experience of photographic art. Working on dimensional photography images, he displays his work on various layers of acrylic and metals. Harris' work traces to his skills in visual art, chaos theory, and quantum physics. He creates a unique and impossible to repeat experience for his audience.

“Water Rest” Digital Print on Aluminum

Harris' digital art involves a process of photographic construction where a single abstracted image is layered over itself on a clear acrylic surface before it is superimposed on a grid. The bottom image is often reduced in size such that the whole piece creates a parallax effect. He then duplicates the parallax image in the viewer’s vision using negative and positive space. The result is an image that shifts in space and changes color upon each movement the individual viewer makes. Given a distinct environment, viewing angle, hanging position and lighting situation; a rather static photograph becomes a dynamic moving image.

What message do you wish to share with your audience? ''Visual reality is an ever-shifting, highly individualized experience. In any given moment, what we see reflects both our inner state and synthesis of outer qualities—light, color, movement, space. My exploration in dimensional photographic art represents an attempt to recreate the perceptual experience, with its dynamic nature and hidden complexities.'' Harris explores dimensional photography with an intention to recreate the complex emotional experience while capturing the moment and inspiration behind the image presentation.

www.hharrisphoto.com

“Saridnes” Digital Print On Aluminum

SPRING 2020

“Sleeping Sardenes” Digital Print on Aluminum

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Jacqueline Domin

“Inizio Della Vita” Analog Photography, 40” X 30”

acqueline Domin is a self-taught naturalist art photographer born in Paris, France. Winner of many awards for her photographs' pictorial beauty, she has been living in Italy for about 25 years. She teaches breathing, relaxation and meditation techniques. Her pictures are the result and consequence of long and slow meditations en plein air. Domin's shots are contemplative and actively participate in the creative energy of nature.

jacquelinedomin.com “Attesa” Analog Photography, 40” X 30”

“Nati Tutti da Lei” Analog Photography, 30” X 20”

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“Primordia” Analog Photography, 40” X 30”

SPRING 2020

CHEROKEE RIVERKEEPERS by Sam Dembling

When anthropologist James Mooney published the first of his influential studies of Native American culture in 1888, “Myths of the Cherokee,” he was struck by the centrality of water in the Cherokee world. Mooney had spent a season living with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians in the Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina. In the following years, he published several foundational books on Cherokee culture, and became, according to JoAllyn Archambault, director of the American Indian Program of the National Museum of Natural History, the “first person to write Indian history with Indian thoughts about their history incorporated into the work.” VIRGINIA Water, Mooney discovered during his season with the Eastern Band, appeared at the very beginning of Cherokee cosmology. In “Myths of the Cherokee,” published in The Journal of American Folklore, he recorded the nation’s origin story, in which the Cherokee conceived of the earth as “a great island floating in a sea of water, and suspended at each of the four cardinal points by a cord hanging down from the sky vault. . . . When the world grows old and worn out, the people will die, and the cords will break and let the earth sink into the ocean, and all will be water again.” We begin in water, and we return to the water. In daily life, the Cherokee acknowledged the spiritual significance of their local rivers, streams, and ponds with a ritual called “going to water.” Each morning at daybreak, Mooney wrote, a healer would lead a party of Cherokee down to a running stream, where the group would face the rising sun and immerse themselves completely in the flowing water, enacting a kind of rebirth. This ceremony of communion touched on nearly all spheres of social life. Going to water, Mooney concluded, was “a part of the ritual for obtaining long life, for winning the affections of a woman, for recovering from a wasting sickness, and for calling down prosperity upon the family at each return of the new moon.” In his forthcoming book, The Riverkeepers: The Cherokees, Their Neighbors, and the Rivers That Made America, historian Gregory Smithers reminds readers of the importance water has had in Cherokee culture. Smithers, professor of history at Virginia Commonwealth University and research fellow of the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities, spoke on the subject at the Library of Virginia in Richmond on April 30. He pointed out that several prominent historical studies have rightly focused on the importance of issues like land, political sovereignty, and gender relations among the Cherokee people. “The thing that holds all of that history together is water, and just how sacred water is,” he said. Smithers calls Riverkeepers a “biography of the aquatic places” where the Cherokee lived, and the book’s protagonist is the massive Tennessee River. For centuries, before the Cherokee were forcibly displaced, starting in 1838, from their ancestral southeastern homelands by President Andrew Jackson during the Trail of Tears, the Tennessee River was so closely associated with them that English,

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Spanish, and French settlers often referred to the waterway simply as the “Cherokee River.” It stood not just at the political and economic center of much of the Cherokee world, but also at the spiritual center. The translation of the Cherokee word for river, “Long Man,” or, more literally, “person, long, he,” evokes something of the sacred essence of those bodies of water, which the Cherokee saw as living entities, endowed with their unique personalities and attributes. While American settlers saw the Tennessee River as a source of economic opportunity, many Cherokee opposed the largescale transformation of waterways such as damming. According to Smithers, from the Cherokee perspective, “[W]hat you’re doing when you radically alter the flow of the river is you’re killing the river. The rivers that do not flow and constitute large stagnant pools of water like a dam tends to produce are considered dead water. Then [the river] ceases to have that personality and that spiritual and ceremonial significance that it would have had otherwise.” Smithers is keen to add that while Cherokees had a different relationship with their environment from American settlers, they still altered the landscape around them in distinct ways. Across the Tennessee River, the Cherokee often built stone weirs, rock obstructions in the water designed to catch fish. The weirs did not halt the flow of the water but instead depended on the continuous motion of streams and rivers to sweep bass and trout into the fishers’ traps, a cooperation of sorts between the built and the natural environment. Today, in the Smoky Mountains, where James Mooney first spent time with the Eastern Band of Cherokee and where a substantial number fled to avoid displacement under President Jackson, an effort is underway to renew the mountains’ waterways. Some 30 miles of protected streams burble alongside quiet, forested areas and through the town center of Cherokee, North Carolina. Thanks to a fish hatchery, the Eastern Band keeps these waters stocked with trout and bass, and recreational fishers from across the region flock to the reservation to try their luck in the streams. While the hatchery has the capacity to harvest over a million fish each year, for environmental reasons, it releases just 250,000 or so into the streams annually. The Facebook page of Cherokee Fisheries and Wildlife Management, which oversees the hatchery, summarizes: “Biological diversity is intricately tied to Cherokee cultural identity. . . . Our program works to manage fish and game populations for subsistence and recreational purposes, restore and protect both culturally significant and rare species, and promote the connection between conservation and cultural values.” ABOUT THE AUTHOR Sam Dembling is a graduate of Macalester College and was an intern with Humanities magazine. “Originally published as “Cherokee Riverkeepers” in the Summer 2019 issue of Humanities magazine, a publication of the National Endowment for the Humanities.”

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SPRING 2020

Janice Alamanou

“Genesis Elements-Man” Photography, 40” X 30”

ombining her photographic virtuosity with her deeprooted poetic vision and innate sensitivity, British fine art photographer Janice Alamanou adds a rhapsodic dimension to the art of capturing photographs, creating lyrical epiphanies that enhance the viewer's perceptual experiences. Alamanou captures her subjects in a symbolic, ethereal, and otherworldly fashion through her creative manipulation of light focused on reflecting a light that shines from within. "Our oceans cover more than 70% of our world and provide essential elements to our ecosystem and creation and sustaining of life. With other problems throughout the whole of the world, we need now, more than ever, to protect and act on saving what we need for our future. Through my art, I try to make people aware, to act, and to care. My artworks are amalgamations of photography, every image captured by myself, and collaged together to create a perception. These are the 'Soul Elements' Collection.

cradles her swollen stomach. Again a depiction of mother earth but this time with the future in her hands. She is floating in time until the calm waters appear for her. 'Reach for Redemption' is a depiction of hope. It shows the light in the sky, and people's hands are reaching out of the turbulence of the rough sea to grasp the light to safety and peace. Other images in Janice’s 'Soul Elements’ Collection include: ‘Evolve, and ‘Beginnings’. ‘Evolve' has the sea in him and swirling around him. It is the depiction of creation and how we must evolve to survive. 'Beginnings' shows a naked form of a woman - again symbolic of mother earth within the sea, the beginning of life, the womb.

'Genesis Elements - Man’, is one of a collection of five, the others being female, representing mother earth, Man is the only male and is in an almost biblical stance, arms outstretched over the sea, representing the power to protect or destroy what is before him.

It is essential to dispose of waste accordingly. I have been looking at the small numbers in the triangle, usually on the bottom of most plastics (numbered 1-7), not easily seen; unfortunately - 1 & 2 can go in recycling, and a quick method is that if it crunches when you squeeze it, it can be recycled. - I wish everyone a good future, and a little love and caring can go a long way for everyone."

‘Poseidon's Child’ has a pregnant woman in a rough sea, turbulence around her, but she remains calm and serene as she

coastalphotography.co.uk

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“Poseidon’s Child” Photography, 40” X 30”

“Reach for Redemption” Photography, 16.5” X 23.4”

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SPRING 2020

Jason Bryant a fingerprint, a signature, and DNA are all methods “A photo, we use to identify a person, but they are just a means to

match a name or face to an individual, not to describe who they are or to translate their identity. For as long as I have been using portraiture as the main focus of my paintings, it is not the identity or recognizable face in which I use to describe my portraits, but more of a blueprint of how I approach portraiture. Many levels go into what makes a person’s portrait. It’s a fabric of many layers, intertwined with a person’s favorite foods, music, and movies. I have used all of these concepts in building my portraits. Stemming from my lifelong love of the cinema, many of the subjects of my paintings are actors and actresses. However, I am not commenting

on the celebrity or the star system, but I use the celebrity as a hook to bring then viewer in. My work has never focused on the face to describe or examine a portrait. Instead, by cropping or hiding certain features of the face, I add more mystery to the picture, bringing us to question who we are and what’s beneath the surface.”

www.bryantpaintings.com

“All That Glitters” Oil on Canvas, 30” X 40”

“Movies of Your Dreams” Oil on Canvas, 48” X 30”

Jelena Rukavina

lena Rukavina is a J econtemporary painter who

lives and works in Wellington, New Zealand. When you look at the first abstract paintings/prints of Jelena Rukavina, you turn back to the very basics of modernist art, the interplay of lines, shapes, colors; you feel the power of these structural elements as those most fundamental forces of nature that shape us. The motive of water or a wave is tranquil, contemplative, and fluid in its essence, in both its form and its meaning. The moments of water movements, wave motions as well as the rhythms of their moves are the

“Seascape 3” Acrylic on Canvas, 12” X 16.5”

SPRING 2020

creators of a continuous but unfortunately, ephemeral spectacle. This is captured in Jelena's paintings. She acquired academic art training through secondary and higher education from an early age and is now inspired by the elusive nature of water, revealing her intuitive side.

jelena_rukavina_art

“Sea1” Acrylic on Canvas, 12” X 16.5”

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Wendy Cohen Cohen, based in Sydney, Australia, creates abstract art with W endy her focus on vibrant color, shapes, and geometric form. She pays

homage to nature using elements like collage, color, and texture to create a sense of fluidity and depth experienced in natural settings to form her abstract creations.

www.wendycohen.net.au wendycohen123

“Waves of Wonder” Acrylic on Canvas

“Floating Shapes Under Water” Acrylic on Canvas

Manuela Eibensteiner ART to painting arises from the deep immersion in the magic of colors. Innocent, alive, “M ypulsating, questioning, drawn leaving traces behind. Every picture has the challenge of conveying an emotional world of experience to the beholder. So the color becomes an adventure, a venture, an argument ... Dive into the world of my ART – ME."

www.art-me.at

“Deep Blue” MT With Crystals on Sand, 120” X 100”

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“Eintauchen” MT With Crystals on Sand, 80” X 80”

SPRING 2020

Jim Fitzpatrick

“Portrait of a Filipina Cleopatra” Color Photography Converted to Black and White and Digitally Altered

“I

primarily draw realistic portraits and do photography. The message I try to convey with my works is to show the beauty, uniqueness, and the positive the world still has to offer. I was blessed to live the dream of mine and become a professional roller derby skater, traveling the world, and being on TV. Unfortunately, injuries ended my dream, but eventually, after recovering, I became a firefighter. Injuries ended that career as well. Sadly nothing lasts forever, but while seeking treatments and things to become more mobile and cope with chronic pain, I got back into drawing and photography. Another dream of mine was having my works on display in an art gallery and published but never thought that would happen, but thanks to Viviana and

ArtTour International, those dreams have come true! I want to take advantage of my opportunities and do something positive to inspire others suffering from chronic pain or other obstacles in their life.”

“Portrait of a Silverback” Color Photography Converted to Black and White

“Portrait of a Filipina in the Mountains of Baguio” Pastel, Charcoal and Photography Digitally Altered

SPRING 2020

jim-ﬁtzpatrick.pixels.com

Raymond John Westraadt African Woman – From Childhood to Adulthood

“African Beauty” Oil on Canvas, 47” X 47”

“T

he Urban dictionary publishes the following: ‘Outside of Africa the definition of an African woman conjures images of starvation, illiteracy, and oppression; she is someone to be pitied, she screams development aid and should appreciate that the world is coming to her rescue’

skills and intelligence, providing guidance and beauty, every step of the way.

However, I am drawn by the strength, resilience and gentleness of women from Africa. Born into the richness of culture and tradition, many practices have defined the way of life for the African woman.

rjwestraadt.com

I celebrate the positive, acknowledging the worth, intellect and beauty of every individual in our culturally rich Society.”

I endeavor to capture the growth of the African woman, from being a young girl in the traditional surrounds to the blossoming of the young woman making her way in the world, capturing her beauty, her inner strength, her development to take a proud place in Society, contributing to her field of expertise with her developed

“Anticipation” Oil on Canvas, 29.5” X 23.6”

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“Playing With my Teddy” Oil on Canvas, 37.4” X 27.5”

SPRING 2020

John Nieman

“The Same Boat” Watercolor, 21“ X 14“

by Daniel Limo

merican artist John Nieman is perhaps best known for harnessing the power of words in his art and using catchy phrases to challenge ideas of power, identity, and humanitarian issues. His portfolio spans from installation art to frames with a story; he skillfully combines pastel and watercolors to achieve photorealistic effects. Nieman has an extensive career that spans over 30 years as both an artist and author; his books often used as a reference in Creative Writing College settings.

words and images. I found that the images could provide an immediate impact and a residual mental tickle. But despite my success in this genre, I have found in the last decade that art can never be static. The artist has to keep pushing himself to explore new boundaries and new challenges. ”

www.johnnieman.com

“Art can never be static. That’s not to say that the exploration of a style shouldn’t be pursued to the hilt. It’s just tough to know when it is time for the next big thing. As a painter and a writer, I have always been partial to art that somehow tells a story. Perhaps that’s why in my early days. I developed a style that combines

“Bobbing Art” Watercolor

SPRING 2020

“Boat Bag” Watercolor

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Mari Carmen Fernandez me, art is finding beauty in every object: a flower, a “T obutterfly, an oxidized piece of metal, a cloud...I try to

convey such beauty through my art. In it, I reflect my love for nature and colors, aiming to seize the essence of the emotional and physical experience.”

www.marisartstudio.com

“The Lost Continent” Mixed Media, 48” X 48”

“After the Storm” Mixed Media, 24” X 42”

Pokey Park

“M together with my passion for historical traditions dictates my creative output.”

y inspiration stems from mythical and cultural symbols spanning both time and people. The cultural diversity found across the globe

www.pokeypark.com

“Riding High and Dry” Bronze , 19"H X 31"w X 15.5"D , Edition of 7

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“Rudder Ralph” Bronze , 10.5"H X 9"w X 7"D , Edition of 24

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Lawrence R. Armstrong

“Spectrous2.3” Acrylic On Board, 54” X 54”

by Yadira Roman

awrence R. Armstrong is an award-winning American contemporary artist and Architect who uses his knowledge and creativity in architecture to create masterful works. Armstrong explores the depth of layers by connecting visual essentials through color, form, shapes, and texture. He uses unique details to grab the attention of viewers by highlighting elements that were buried in the background. What are you currently focusing on? “Abstract pieces based on layered paint and exploring the depth of color.” Have you experienced any significant changes in your work this last year? “These layered paintworks represent an evolution of my process, exploring conceptual layering.” Where are you from, and how has that influenced your art? “My extensive travels provide an unexpected and spontaneous vision for new work. I derive inspirations from many different environments and associated ambiance.”

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“Spectrous1.5” Acrylic On Board, 18” X 24”

“Spectrous1.0” Acrylic On Board, 18” X 24”

Lawrence R. Armstrong has exhibited his artwork in solo shows in New York City, Milan, Florence, and Los Angeles. He’s also exhibited his artwork in prestigious art shows, and fairs including the SOFA Art Fair in Chicago, Illinois, the Galleria 360 Emozion Arte show in Florence, Italy, and Art Comes Alive in New York City. His awards include the 2019 ArtTour International Magazine’s Masters Award, the Sandro Botticelli Prize in Florence, Italy, and the Kent State University Advocacy Award.

www.lraart.com

“Series of Seven” Acrylic on Board

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SPRING 2020

Maribel Matthews

“The Spirit Of The Waters” Oil on Canvas, 23” X 33”

"For me, painting is a necessity and has become my passion. I love starting a new piece – the anticipation and excitement of creating something new, something from the soul, a piece of art that may give pleasure to others but more importantly, fulfills me”.

by Yadira Roman

aribel Matthews is a Gibraltar artist, who exhibits both traditional and abstract works. She remains connected to her roots and has made a name for herself both locally and internationally. Matthews enjoys her time in travel, and promotes the rapturing beauty of her home town through soft textures and dreamy color palettes, capturing the romanticism encompassing abstraction to Impressionist and landscapes to urban views. Employing mixed media with oil and acrylics, she layers each color with seamless transitions, resembling that of the natural environment. Thematically, Matthews champions environmental conservation and highlights the detrimental effects of global warming. Her abstract works depict the impending danger facing the earth, highlighting the forest fires, hurricanes, and droughts; while using her subjects as a metaphorical symbol of the strength and natural will possessed by such wonders. "The Rock of Gibraltar" standing as her point of inspiration and poetic muse. She achieves this by using bold colors that represent characteristics of each element, that brings forth an image that goes beyond the sight of a landscape and puts the spotlight on its impact on humanity.

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“New Autumn” Oils and Acrylics, 30”X40”

“Days & Nights of Suns & Stars” Acrylics on Card, 11” X 16”

"The Rock of Gibraltar stands proud as the Gateway to the Mediterranean. The turquoise waters that surround it have been my inspiration since I was a child. The Spirit of its waters has offered a safe haven to thousands of sailors, who have found a welcome to their vessels and people, which is second to none. It is my home and my muse.

In this painting, I have chosen a different angle of the rock that is not the usual iconic one that everyone recognizes. I wanted to show a more solid angle that portrays its resilience. Despite having been under siege many times, it has withstood them all. In the second painting, I aimed to show how the Spirit of the waters and its relevance to the Rock of Gibraltar have inspired me."

www.maribelmatthews.com

“Gibraltar Standing Tall” Oil on Canvas, 36” X 48”

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SPRING 2020

Maya Vinokurov

“Vishuddha Chakra” Mixed Media, 16” X 16”

aya Vinokurov's love for art began at a very tender age. Now an accomplished artist, Vinokourov, creates works permeated with life and purpose, representing what she describes as a "harmony between nature and life. Tell us about your mandalas of light? “They are beautiful drawings that are created based on mathematics and geometry. The foundation is code Fibonacci! It's

“Peaceful Mind” Mixed Media, 24” X 24”

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modules (positive energy programs) in figures and color combinations. Mandalas may have a different form (circle, square, triangle, and so. on.) but always symmetrical. For people, animals, and all nature, this vibration is positive and favorable. A great experience this year is the reaction of different people for my new pictures 'Mandalas of Light'. They said to me how these pictures create around their positive energy. This inspired me to create a new series, mandalas, for seven chakras.”

www.artfor-life.com

“Svadhisthana Chakra” Mixed Media, 16” X 16”

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Ric Conn

“Anne Bonny Pirate Heroine for our Time” Oil on Canvas, 36” X 24”

“End of the Road” Oil on Canvas, 36” X 24”

by YaRo

ic Conn is a leading voice in speaking up about inequality and social issues women often face. Inspired by expressionist methods, both traditional and contemporary, he exhibits bold textures and calculated use of light in carrying the symbolic imagery in each visual narrative. Conn explores the opposition between reality and perception. His fascination and motivation are amped by realties that appear invisible in our everyday lives, cutting into the core of the hearts of his subjects and exposing hidden emotion. Layers of female characteristics are captured in each one of his paintings- focusing on the essence of courage and beauty in women.

“I believe in equality, and I want my work to reflect that. The stories in my paintings are situations that can happen to anyone. I paint them from the female perspective because, unfortunately, women are still mistreated. Since I am a man and the subjects of my paintings are women, I attempt to show equality because the stories can, and sometimes have, happened to me as well.”

www.ricconn.com

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SPRING 2020

Patricia Karen Gagic

by Yadira Roman

rtTour International is proud to present our artist of the year, Patricia Karen Gagic. Award-winning international author, artist, humanitarian, and meditation specialist. She pushes the boundaries of stimulating her audience through contemplative themes, embracing nature as a symbolic subject of the neuroplasticity of the brain as a key to heightened mindfulness. High-caliber brush strokes and complex constructions of color bring to life her storytelling urges. Gagic exhibits large scale abstract landscapes; her primary focus is color and shadow, and the natural forms found in nature, interiors, and figures. She paints from her creative perception, preferring the dynamic quality, richness, and challenges of working with shadows, and layered textures. Stimulating,

“Search 1” Mixed Media, 40” X 30”

“Serenity” Mixed Media, 36” X 48”

SPRING 2020

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“Xxxxxx” Xxxxxxx, 00”X00”

“Into the Mystic Dream” Mixed Media, 32” X 49”

intense, and bold color palettes are balanced with complementary cool and neutral tones in her recent works. Color can often be discovered as the identifying factor with the essence of each subject, rich white tones, blended hues of blue resembling iced lakes, and bodies of water. An appreciation for the grandeur of nature is evoked, and one can only desire to step into the serenity depicted on each canvas. While hidden details are found in the corners of each shape,

overlapping layers display blended smooth surfaces in background space. Her experiences as a facilitator for Meditation, Reiki, and Feng Shui inspire her to hone into her talent by connecting the mind and body through art; Challenging both herself and her audience to dig deep into the subconscious mind. We are honored to celebrate her as an Artivist, putting in her humanitarian efforts to educate and empower her community. Her name travels through libraries as she commits herself to create resources for accessible education and literature to students around the world. Patricia Karen Gagic is an accomplished author and humanitarian/activist. She is represented by Artworld Fine Art in Toronto, Ontario, FACEC International in France, Paul Fisher Gallery in Florida, and Gallery on the Bay in Hamilton, Ontario. Patricia exhibited with BB International Fine Arts in Geneva, Berlin, Korea, Austria, and Zurich. In 2007 Patricia was an Honorary Commissioner at the Venice Biennale representing the art of Adi Da Samraj -Transcendental Realism. In 2018, Patricia won the Gold Medal in Photography at the SNBA (Salon de la Societé Nationale des Beaux-Arts du Paris) at the Carousel du Louvre. She is one of the 2019 recipients of the TOP 60 Masters by ATIM (Art Tour International Magazine) and named artist of the Year 2020. In 2017 Patricia was the recipient of the Excellence in the Arts for Courage and Commitment to Human Rights, Dignity, and Freedom by the Canadian Civil Liberties Association. She received the 2019 Silver Medal from the Societe Academique Arts, Sciences, and Lettres of France in Paris.

www.patriciakarengagic.com “Escape to Reality” Mixed Media, 40” X 30”

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SPRING 2020

Robin Babitt “The Bon Art-Petit Recipe”Art Book

“Radio City Music Hall Presents THE BLINTZETTES” Acrylic on Canvas -, 36" X 24" Unframed. Original Is Framed White High-Gloss Floating Frame 25.5" X 37.5"

by Yadira Roman

obin Babitt brings a whimsical creative experience to the art of cooking. In 'Bon Art-Petit Recipe/ Art Book,' she brings to life her intimate relationship with colors and letters to keep the thrill and adventure of learning alive. Robin has a unique sensory reaction known as Synesthesia. Both letters and numbers trigger a visual sensory of unique colors. Numbers take on primary colors for her, while letters create a hue cycle differentiating each based on the intensity of the colored pattern. “Letters are different shades of colors. Numbers are primary colors. In elementary school, I saw the alphabet above the black chalkboard as a rainbow. Art class was my ally, and algebra my adversary. I thought everyone saw the alphabet as I did until I learned of a phenomenon that identified me. I have been described as unique, colorful, and animated, and I could not tell you why. My magical talent is that I see things differently than others see them. I see things through the lens of a kaleidoscope. From the very beginning, I've been described as unique, colorful, and possessing a 'light.' Some have told me that people are drawn to me because of this ‘light.' “Chckn & Dmplns” Acrylic on Canvas, 30" X 24" Unframed

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“The Bon Art-Petit Art Recipe Cookbook Cover”

“Fonduzzi” Acrylic on Canvas , 24" X 30" Unframed. Original Is Framed White High-Gloss Floating Frame 25.5" X 31.5"

Days of the week are colors, as are months of the year, music and songs. letters in someone's name will determine whether or not we'll have a friendship, relationship, be acquaintances, or possibly nothing. The price on a menu (numbers) is a determining factor in what I'll order. I would easily choose an entrée for $26.00 over an entrée for $29.00. The '6' in the $26.00 is very bright compared to the '9' in $29.00. The position of lighter letters in someone's name is a determining factor as well, but this was normal for me. I never gave it a moment's thought. I thought everyone saw things in color until my daughter called me from college one day in 2007 and told me that she had learned about what I have. I didn't know I had anything! She proceeded to tell me that it's a phenomenon called Synesthesia, aka Grapheme-Color Synesthesia and Chromesthesia, sound-to-color. My life is in color, as you can see by my art. I can't imagine living any other way. I choose to create fun in vibrant colors to jolt fond, happy memories from that inner child that may have been lost while we are trying to grow up."

Using acrylics on canvas, she taps into a playful approach in the narrative of each recipe provided with her uplifting storyline and lively images full of vivid brushstrokes. Her zest for life is contagious and captured in the details she uses to enhance movement and spatial elements. The kitchen/coffee table book provides a variety of recipes for people of all ages, both children and adults. This overall sensory experience that stimulates its audience inside out is a prime reflection of Robin's gifted form of communicating with the world around her. Robin allows people to ignite a new relationship with their food, in her eclectic style and fun recipes, and to encourage a new perspective on creative action. Over time the talented artist has already gained massive respect in the contemporary art world, collaborating with worldwide collectors and creatives as she continues to spread her messages of positivity.

“My recipe book for art is designed to give children, teens, and adults, not only a taste for cooking but a taste for art. Combining these two ingredients is the perfect recipe for simple fun, interaction, laughter, creativity, and joy. Bridging the gap between the generations, the gap between knowing how to boil water and making something worthy of serving is a positive, fun way to learn, make mistakes, laugh at yourself, be humble, be confident, knowing all the while that if all else fails, you can either send out for a pizza or make one yourself! All recipes are tried and true, and each original painting giclee or print is accompanied by the specialty recipe for that piece of art to jolt memories from that inner child we thought we lost while we were busy growing up. The Bon Art-Petit Recipe/Art Book is in production and will be available Summer 2020.”

www.robinbabitt.com “Big Yellow Taxi” Acrylic on Canvas , 30" X 40" Unframed. Original Is Framed White High Gloss Floating Frame 31.5" X 41/5”

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SPRING 2020

Robin Babitt “Bachuki, A Little Bumblebee in a Great BIG World”

“BACHUKI Mother Earth” Acrylic on Canvas

by Yadira Roman

ritten and illustrated by Robin Babitt, "Bachuki, A Little Bumblebee in a Great BIG World" is a children’s book that explores environmental and human subjects. Through Bachuki, Robin shares a timely message about adapting to change and honoring the environment. With an inviting rhythmic tone and friendly,

“BACHUKI Jelly Jam” Acrylic on Canvas

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relatable characters, this story shows the many faces and experiences that construct a community. Vibrant pictures warm the heart, while relaying a valuable lesson - any form of kindness makes the world beautiful. From the naïve perspective of a bee, Robin uses commonly known social groups such as family and friendship as a stimulus,

“BACHUKI The Crab Quartet” Acrylic on Canvas

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approaching complex subjects by focusing on more specific topics such as the transformation of a butterfly. When children read about crabs and jellyfish as creatures to be treated equally, they take home the message that Planet Earth is worth fighting for. Robin focuses on the current state of risk due to overfishing and pollution, encouraging children to reflect on the dire need to value all living creatures and to be respectful guests of the land and the seas. Touching poems about Mother Earth are accompanied by realistic depictions of the impacts of global warming.

“BACHUKI Fearless” Acrylic on Canvas

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Sharp lines and figurative shapes often appear to bounce off each image, creating a popping effect that ignites a curiosity within her youthful audience. Robin is determined to educate and inspire her audience through this mind-opening and heart-warming tale, gently inviting her readers to learn and love.

www.robinbabitt.com

“BACHUKI Bina Breezy” Acrylic on Canvas

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Roxana Sora

“Soltice”

“Rainbows at Sea”

by Yadira Roman

oxana Sora’s canvases burst with energetic blends of cool tones dripping through into suggestive shapes, and a vibrant color palette reflecting natural elements, and wonders. Her works give viewers a veritable buffet of lines to follow and connections to make. Sora takes moments to direct the paint flow of her abstract scenes while allowing her connection to the color being the driving force of the final result. Inspired by the lively essence of towering clouds and turquoise waters where she resides in Florida, her environment plays a role as a source of inspiration and celebration.

roxysora.com

“Somer Set”

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Sandi Pillsbury Gredzens

“Lake Superior Landscape Summer in Castle Danger” Oil on Canvas, 12” X 24”

“I

paint to find balance in my life: to 'unplug' from all the busy-ness of life. My artmaking helps me to relax and go deeper inside myself and to express my deepest emotions. I want to share the beauty and serenity I find in nature with a broader audience. I have always had a strong connection to nature. I have been blessed in my life to live in spaces that provide me with much inspiration. I like to paint 'en Plein air' whenever possible, as I find direct observation to be the purest form of painting. I am blessed to live on Lake Superior in northeastern Minnesota. The lake and its environment have long been the inspiration for my work. I intend to bring the viewer into my work to discover the many layers that go into my paintings. I love to build up the surface of a painting to make the artwork “A Tribute to Janis Trillium” Oil Over Acylic, 14” X 18” have more depth, thereby creating a deeper meaning that goes beyond the surface of a painting. I will often paint with acrylic as an underpainting or a sketch; in the opposite or complementary color of the oil or alkyd, that will go over the underpainting. This provides more depth and movement in work. My art makes my soul happy. It provides me with an exploration –to find new ways to express myself –to 'stretch' myself. I love to discover new techniques to enhance my work! Painting has become an internal necessity – like breathing, sleeping, eating, and drinking! I hope that the viewer can truly slow down and "drink in" the beauty of God's creation. It is truly magnificent!”

www.sandipillsbury.com

“Lake Superior Landscape Spring in Castle Danger” Oil on Canvas, 12” X 24”

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SPRING 2020

Shifra Levyathan

“The Guarding Earth” Fine Art Photography

by Yadira Roman

hifra Levyathan is an award-winning fine art photographer, her symbolic urban photography portrays complex layers of life and reality. Levyathan uses computer software to manipulate the images into surreal artistic photographs. Inspired by the events taking place within each individual and their surroundings, she captures profound perspectives through her lens.

www.shifralev.com

“The Blessing of Water 2” Fine Art Photography

“Fifth Day of Creation” Fine Art Photography

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“The Black Lake” Fine Art Photography

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“Xxxxxx” Xxxxxxx, 00”X00”

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SPRING 2020

The Legacy of Dr. Masaru Emoto by Viviana Puello

The groundbreaking work of Japanese scientist Masaru Emoto, one of the most important water researchers of our times, leads to a new consciousness about our relation to Earth's most precious resource. According to Dr. Emoto's hypothesis, water takes on the resonance of the energy that is directed at it, and human consciousness can affect its molecular structure. For over twenty years until he passed away in 2014, Dr. Emoto studied the evidence behind his discovery of the ways in which the molecular structure of water transforms when it is exposed to human words, sounds, thoughts, and intentions. The astonishing photo documentation of his research about water revolutionized the idea that our thoughts and intentions impact our physical world. Dr. Masaru Emoto was a Doctor of Alternative Medicine, who was a graduate of Yokohama Municipal University and the Open International University. His books “Messages from Water 1 and 2” and “The Hidden Messages in Water,”

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were first published in Japan and sold over 400,000 copies worldwide. The Experiment As documented in Dr. Emoto's New York Times Bestseller, "The Hidden Messages in Water," he conducted his experiment by exposing glasses filled with water to different sounds, words, and thoughts before freezing them. Once each glass was frozen, he examined the crystal formations for patterns. With the use of Magnetic Resonance Analysis technology and high-speed photographs, Dr. Emoto demonstrated that water creates aesthetically pleasing physical molecular formations, when it is exposed to loving, kind, and compassionate words and thoughts. On the other hand, when water is exposed to harmful and negative words and intentions, it creates random, “unpleasant” physical molecular compositions. One interesting part of Emoto's studies was the discovery that different water sources produce different crystalline

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and the Hidden Message of Water structures when frozen. For example, when frozen, a water sample from a mountain stream shows structures of beautifully-shaped geometric design. In contrast, if the sample is taken from a polluted water source, these structures are distorted and randomly formed. Emoto thus proposed that contaminated water with a distorted crystal structure could be returned to normal with UV light (now used to filter water) or electromagnetic waves. His research also demonstrated how polluted and toxic water, when exposed to prayer and intention, can be positively changed and restored to the same beautiful geometric crystal formations he found in clean, healthy water. Other Findings In addition to the fact that Emoto discovered that our words and thoughts affect water, he made other important discoveries. For starters, the science experiments he conducted demonstrated how sound affects water. His music studies concluded that certain sounds, such as classical music,

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generated beautiful crystalline patterns. Heavy metal music, meanwhile, caused the creation of distorted crystalline formations. In 2008, Dr. Masaru Emoto published his findings in the Journal of Scientific Exploration. His legacy gives us the notion of water as a living consciousness. It opens up a dialogue about water as a powerful energy source, and there are many scientists now diving deeper into whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s possible with the energy of water. According to Dr. Emoto, water is the "blueprint for our reality," and emotional "energies" and "vibrations" can change the physical structure of water. One question comes to mind and that is, since we are made mostly of water, how can thoughts, sounds, and intentions affect us?

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Congrats to our â&#x20AC;&#x153;Stay Home, Save Livesâ&#x20AC;? Art Contest Winners

Enjoy This Awe-Inspiring Photo Gallery of all Finalists.

huge THANK YOU to all of the talented artists who participated. The judging was tough since all of the entries were such beautiful works of art from so many gifted artists. Thank you for devoting your creative energies to create art during these challenging times. We invite you to view ALL the entries here, and to please consider entering our next contest. Check the next page to see the theme and enter the contest.

TOP WINNERS FAZIAN Prize granted: A full week of free social media management, social marketing coaching, social media pages re-design, and social marketing strategy plan. LEONID GERVITS Prize granted: One full month of ArtTour International Digital Advertising on all of our platforms, including social media. Facebook Live events and the ArtTour International Website. FIONA CAMPBELL Prize granted: A double-page spread in our Spring 2020 "Sacred Waters" Publication with a full digital marketing campaign. SHELBY WILLIS Prize granted: A double-page spread in our Spring 2020 "Sacred Waters" Publication with a full digital marketing campaign.

Our next contest is open now for submissions! Visit www.arttourinternational.com/contests for more information. 58

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Fazian

Biosphere, Mixed Media on Wood Assemblage, Recycled Objects, Acrylic Painting, Pieces of Broken Porcelain, Iguana Toy, Synthetic Varnish

Leonid Gervits

"Homage to COVID19 Heroes” Oil on Canvas

Leonid Gervits

"Homage to COVID19 Heroes” Oil on Canvas

Fiona Campbell “Glut” (Detail), 2018, Recycled and Found Materials. Photo by Jennifer Moyes

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Cont. Next Page

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Barbara Schneider

"Flower VI” Artificial Nature , Digital Photography/ Asus Zenfone, PSE

Caren Akers

Acrylic Paint, Drywall Mud, Over Old Painting

Ric Conn

"The Spring Bonnet” Mixed Media

SPRING 2020

Betty Collier

"Northern Hawk Owl” Ink Pens on Watercolor Paper, 12” X 17”

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“Xxxxxx” Xxxxxxx, 00”X00”

Daniel Zlota

"Coffee Corner” Watercolor on Arches Paper Rough 300g/M2 – 140 Lb, 20” X 40”

Henrik Sjöström

"El Bastardo, Moment Of Matriarchal Ascendancy” Acrylic, Spray Paint and Pen on Canvas, 40”X 50”

Yemaya Theŕesa

"Consciousness in Frequencies #3” Abstract Art Photography With Digital Editing

Eric Hubbes

"The Passage” Acrylic-Multimedia Painting on Canvas , 60” X 80”

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Cont. Next Page

SPRING 2020

Skadi Engeln

"La Voiselle 1” Tempera, Charcoal, Pastels On Canvas, 20” X 40”

Nina Tokhtaman Valetova

"Life as Distorted Line” Oil on Canvas

Margot Cormier Splane

"Everyone Is Beautiful in Their Own Way” Acrylic and Serigraph Collage, 18" X 24”

Bente Halvorsen

"Bergen City by Night” Oil on Canvas, 60” X 30”

SPRING 2020

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GOING GREEN: EASY TO IMPLEMENT TIPS

FOR ARTISTS

by ARTY ARTBOT

hat can artists do to reduce their carbon footprint without interfering with their creativity? Here are eight simple actions artists can take right now to start going green: 1. Recycle, Reuse, Reinvent Some of the most famous artwork has been created using discarded, odd items (Duchamp'sÂ Fountain, for example) 2. Purchase Supplies from Eco-friendly Art Stores You'll find bamboo products, recycled paper, and drawing pencils made with reforested wood at these green shops.Â 3. Preserving Acrylic Paints Avoid throwing out dried acrylic paint unnecessarily by sealing paint in plastic wrap, palette lids, or impermeable containers. 4. Properly Dispose of Paint Never flush unusable paint down the toilet or dump them into sinks. Also, never toss artist paints in dumpsters or outdoor garbage cans where animals and pets can access them. Improper disposal of art supplies that are not eco-friendly can poison the soil, plants and reduce access to clean water.

Think Green, Stay Inspired!

5. Reuse Panels and Canvases By Painting Over Unwanted Artwork Recycling old paintings done on canvas by painting over them can inspire you to create something in bolder colors needed to conceal old paint. 6. Recycle Packaging Materials Get creative with bubble wrap, cardboard boxes, Styrofoam, and other paper items used to mail things. Cut up large cardboard boxes and practice painting or drawing creative ideas on pieces of cardboard. You can also reuse packing material to pack your products for mailing. 7. Avoid Using Aerosols and Spray Paint SuppliesÂ Aerosols no longer contain chlorofluorocarbons. Instead, this toxic chemical has been replaced by volatile organic compounds that still cause damage to the environment. 8. Energize Your Studio with Solar Power Small artist studios can be easily powered by installing solar panels on the roof. Besides, relying on solar power to illuminate your art studio can save thousands of dollars in energy bills.

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SPRING 2020

Fiona Campbell

“Snakes and Ladders” 2019, Found Materials, B-Wing, Shepton Mallet Prison. Photo Cred Dave Cable

ased in Somerset, UK, Fiona Campbell creates largescale sculptural installations, which she approaches as drawings in space. Materiality and process are central: the work is hand-made, labor-intensive, and her use of recycled and found materials relates to our relationship with matter, nature, and ourselves.

Last year, Fiona co-curated ACE-funded project B-Wing in Shepton Mallet Prison (de-commissioned), involving eight artists/writers and community events. Fiona created a series of large scale works Snakes and Ladders (pictured). Interacting with the massive space, 4-7 meters long hand-crafted rickety

At the root of her practice is the notion of interconnectedness throughout nature, energy, life’s cyclical persistence, and transformation. Increasingly, environmental concerns about human exploitation of nature and over-consumption inform the content, taking her work into the realm of activism. Fiona has an MFA from Bath Spa University. She gained a Royal Society of Sculptors Gilbert Bayes Award 2019 and recently won a global arts Award from Red Line Art Works, a global art project. As part of her practice, she embraces community engagement. She enjoys curating art projects in unexpected places. In 2015 she was awarded Arts Council funding for an ambitious project step in stone - site-specific artscapes in Mendip quarries with 14 international artists. The multidisciplinary event linked culture, environment, and community.

“Matter in Flux” (Detail), 2017, Recycled and Found Mixed Media. Photo Cred John Taylor

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“Lichen” 2014, Reclaimed Steel, Copper, Lead, Wire, Twine, Wool, Netting, Nitrate. Photo Cred Max McClure

“Glut” 2018, Recycled and Found Materials. Photo Cred Mike Garlick

ladders made from found wood and paper spanned three floors. One suspended from the ceiling was reminiscent of flight and extinct animals hung in museums. In contrast, soft sculptural entrail forms dangled from the ladders. Snakes and Ladders allude to the human cycle of striving, greed, suffering, hope, and was inspired by Piranesi’s ‘The Imaginary Prisons’ series.

"The work is a wailing, related to my increasing concerns about environmental issues: human imposition on nature, consumerism, waste, our plastic oceans, factory farming, mass extinctions. And the loss of my dog. Bodily forms made from found and recycled materials suggest entrails, abject yet seductive. I collect materials from what’s around me - industrial and organic. The process of binding and stitching is a form of suturing, material as message".

Glut (see image) was recently on exhibition as part of the Gilbert Bayes Award Winners Exhibition, Royal Society of Sculptors, London. It was scheduled to tour Grizedale Sculpture, Cumbria, but halted by covid19. Glut has a relevance to the Covid19 epidemic, a result of cruel incarceration and trading of wildlife as meat. Fiona explains:

www.ﬁonacampbellart.co.uk

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ﬁonacampbellartist Fiona Campbell Art @ﬁonasculpture

SPRING 2020

Shelby Willis

“Whales Love Story”

ith a background in ecology, Shelby Willis brings her love for nature and wildlife to life in soulful and expressionistic paintings. Each artwork is created with the intent of exuding positive energy, and inspiring outside of the box appreciation for nature. Shelby mainly works in acrylic, and her style can be described as impressionistic, vibrant, and intuitive. Although she usually has an idea of the subject matter she would like to paint Shelby finds pure creative happiness and freedom in the process of trusting her intuition to take her in the right direction with each added layer.

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Shelby grew up in a very creative family, which helped shaped her vision for herself as an artist. Her vision is to let go of limiting beliefs, step outside of her comfort zone and fearlessly pursue her passion, knowing we live in a world of limitless possibilities – and hopefully inspire others to do the same along the way. Shelby has put this sentiment into action by tackling two large scale murals in Alberta and Manitoba, Canada. She has also teamed up with another artist to turn a full-size arena ice rink into a coloring sheet, and will soon be collaborating with youth and another artist to paint a skateboard park.

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Not surprisingly, creating large scale sidewalk art came naturally to Shelby. After receiving an anonymous gift of hot chocolate and mugs at her doorstep amidst the pandemic, Shelby was inspired to create chalk art on her driveway to say thank you and spread some joy in her neighborhood. She chose to incorporate the message “Sunnier Days Ahead” as a short and sweet reminder that we will make it through this together, and hopefully come out better on the other side. Shelby has painted for as long as she can remember but has been more seriously pursuing her work for the past seven years. In addition to painting, Shelby has also curated her Art Retreat called “Fearless Creativity for the Soul” to help others push past their inner critic and express themselves authentically through painting.

www.shelbywillis.ca “Sunnier Days Ahead”

“Find Your Zen”

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“Xxxxxx” Xxxxxxx, 00”X00”

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