This July, I was honoured to be selected as one of 20 artists to exhibit my work at the Beauty of Bees Art Exhibition in Streetsville, Ontario.
The annual art show was held in a lush “pollinator” garden, surrounded by plein air artists painting on site, flowers of all colours, and of course bees and butterflies, while classical music played in the background, adding an element of elegance to this community event.
While exhibiting my art was in itself a special moment for me, the highlight of the event was meeting artists of all ages, across disciplines bound by a shared interest in art and passion for bees. I met photographers, digital artists, and painters who were open to sharing techniques and advice, and eager to join me for a plein air painting session in the near future (stay tuned!).
For Gilmore Girls fans, this was exactly the type of event Taylor Doose would throw in Stars Hollow, with a welcoming atmosphere and warm staff and volunteers, all united in service of art and community.
A bit about my piece:
A Girl Bee Can Dream (The Anatomy of a Bee) evokes vintage botanical science books. Where the labeled parts of the flora or fauna historically pointed to facts, my painting asks for a second look with labels that explain that bees can dance, build, mourn, and even dream.
The hope is that by learning more about this insect, the audience will feel about it differently when they see it ‘in the wild’. David Suzuki said that when people know more about something they are more likely to take care of it and this is the sentiment I hope to achieve my art. The piece combines my painting and writing skills to create something aesthetic with a memorable, meaningful message.
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Thank you to the Mississauga Art Council, Streetsville BIA, Streetsville Bread & Honey Festival, and Clickworthy Digital Marketing for hosting and sponsoring The Beauty of Bees Exhibition (providing seating, ice cream, water, and good vibes) and for supporting local and emerging artists!
Bela Day 