Birds & A Bee

Works by Christine Hubbell

Artist Reception | Friday March 21st 5-8pm

“My colored pencil illustrations blend curiosity about the natural world with storytelling. Realistic birds, plants, and animals take center stage, emerging from layers of handwriting, dreamlike landscapes, and imaginative settings. My goal is to evoke an emotional connection to nature and to illuminate aspects of the natural world that go unnoticed.

In this collection, birds (and a bee!) pause in the middle of their stories. Lucky Bluebirds take a skeptical view of gambling, a pair of Downy Woodpeckers reconsider their relationship, and a Common Yellowthroat accepts the responsibility of home ownership. Each story unfolds differently, in ways that can be subtle, whimsical, and allegorical. Look for alien spacecraft, humor, and commentary.

I work in colored pencil on translucent surfaces, typically drafting film. This process keeps the work fluid as I experiment with layering an image over and under other media. I balance the fine detail of colored pencil with painted surfaces, digitally enhanced photographs, decorative papers, and oil crayons. The expressive possibilities of mixed media allow me to play with elements derived from dreams and free association. I hope you’ll enjoy imagining your own stories as you explore my work.”

Christine Hubbell