NATURE / LANDSCAPE 1ST PLACE WINNER

My concept over the past few years has concentrated on effects climate change has had on my personal environment. Some works showcase species that were common to me as a child but are now listed as endangered, like the famous Monarch butterfly and certain bees and dragonflies. Even the smallest species need to be seen, as they matter and must be fought for as fervently as the large and more visible. Several pieces depict the Lake Michigan shore. Some show decades old wooden structures unearthed by unprecedented wave action along pristine beaches. Others, including my latest piece, "Innundated", show how destructive being swallowed by record high water and ice is on shoreline vegetation. Without those root systems holding fast, sand and dirt alone haven't the strength to remain, and erosion is greatly increased. Although representing dark scenarios, I want to create work that is enjoyable to look at. I am not an "in your face" kind of person, so my art though strong in visual impact, more softly conveys my message. It is meant to evoke a positive emotional response that will first engage the viewer, then elicit the questions that will lead to conversations about environmental issues.