This month, we invited each of our gallery artists to share a short reflection about one artwork they’re exhibiting in the May–June show—something personal, a story, a memory, or simply why the piece is meaningful to them. The result is a collection of intimate glimpses into the inspiration behind the work you see on the walls.
Nishita Jain's 'On a Higher Plane' is inspired by a moment in Manali, India, where the play of light and shadow evoked a sense of quiet introspection.
"The solitary figure on the staircase represents a personal journey through both physical space and inner reflection."
On a Higher Plane
Rana Geralis chose 'Guardian of the Garden', inspired by a peaceful spring morning at Surreybrooke Nursery in Frederick, MD.
“The statue, standing among swaying daffodils, felt like a protector of the garden’s peace. This piece holds a special place in my heart as a reminder of that serene moment and the wonder I find in nature.”
Guardian of the Garden
Ellen Corddry shares her woodcut 'Box Turtle Home', a detailed, immersive depiction of the forest floor in early spring.
"I studied the forest floor, in early spring, near a bike trail in Columbia. I created a little world in my woodcut; with a box turtle, skunk cabbage, and a dragon fly."
Box Turtle Home
John Stier shares the thrill behind capturing one of nature’s most elusive subjects in motion.
"As any photographer can tell you, catching a humming bird in flight, especially away from a feeder, is a very difficult task. Many shots, with and without flash, were taken before finally capturing this gorgeous bird. The feeling of the catch is exhilarating."
Hummer I
Diane Dunn’s collage honors the mystique of Egyptian cats, sparked by a metallic paper found in her husband’s workshop.
"This collage started with a piece of interesting wrapping paper that I found in my husband's workshop… a translucent, metallic paper with an ancient Egyptian motif. I decided I would turn it into a tribute to the cats of Egypt, which were highly revered as companions and symbols of divinity. I've never had a cat, due to allergies, but I think they are wonderful, intelligent, mysterious creatures."
Cats of Egypt
Jay Moore captured a glowing coastal moment in Oregon, where a hidden cluster of starfish turned an ordinary rock into the perfect sunset foreground.
"Sunset along the ocean in Bandon, Oregon is always beautiful, especially when it’s combined with the low tide, as the plethora of rock formations showcase its most colorful residence, starfish. When I found this somewhat small rock, I almost didn’t even stop, but as I walked around to the other side, I was filled with excitement to find a cluster of starfish hanging out together on the East side of the rock. And I knew instantly it was going to be my foreground to that evenings sunset."
Bandon Sunset with Starfish
For Claudia Pearce, a childhood immersed in Florida’s waters continues to inspire her art, where aquatic life takes center stage.
"I grew up in Florida literally swimming with dolphins, water skiing next to alligators, scuba diving with manatee, and on coral reefs with barracuda, body surfing with sting rays, and more. Water and aquatic creatures were part of my existence and feature heavily in my work."
Mandarin Fish on Reef
Explore the full collection from this special exhibition in our online shop. Each piece tells a personal story and is available for purchase—whether you’re looking to start your collection or find that one artwork that truly speaks to you. Don’t miss the chance to bring home something meaningful!