The Downriver Council for the Arts’ (DCA) presents our Annual Members Show, an in-person and on-line exhibit! Hover over the image to read the description. Click to the left or right to scroll through the entire show. Even more art is on display in our main gallery. If you are interested in purchasing a piece, please contact the DCA at 734-720-0671 or dc4arts@downriverarts.org
Thank you to all the artists who submitted art into this exhibit!
The Sky is Falling
Michelle Graznak | The Sky is Falling | Encaustic | 11.25” x 12” x 1/2” | $400
Instagram: MichelleGraznakPhotoandArt
Artist Statement-Two Golden Fish
Spiritual symbolism winds its way throughout the encaustic works of Michelle Graznak and emerges as an offering of tranquility, solace and hopefulness. This series of 5 paintings borrow from the Buddhist Ashtamangala series of 8 auspicious symbols that represent offerings from the gods made to the Buddha upon his reaching Enlightenment. In the case of the Golden Fish, the symbol represents a state of conscious courage and fearlessness especially when confronted with adversity. Just as the fish swim freely toward the ocean, humanity seeks freedom from drowning in “Samsara” or the cycle of life and rebirth. To escape this cycle is to finally reach enlightenment.
Our world seems submerged in inescapable suffering during these times of pandemic disease, persecution of autocratic regimes upon cultural and religious minorities and environmental degradation. The artist looks to the Golden Fish as a vehicle for achieving the courage to take action and for describing compassion for those who become submerged in these conditions. To imagine ourselves as Golden Fish, submerged in universally flowing waters is to recognize our unity as living beings.
Summoning of the Golden Fish
Michelle Graznak | Summoning of the Golden Fish | Encaustic | 12” x 12” x 1/2” | $450
Instagram: MichelleGraznakPhotoandArt
Artist Statement-Two Golden Fish
Spiritual symbolism winds its way throughout the encaustic works of Michelle Graznak and emerges as an offering of tranquility, solace and hopefulness. This series of 5 paintings borrow from the Buddhist Ashtamangala series of 8 auspicious symbols that represent offerings from the gods made to the Buddha upon his reaching Enlightenment. In the case of the Golden Fish, the symbol represents a state of conscious courage and fearlessness especially when confronted with adversity. Just as the fish swim freely toward the ocean, humanity seeks freedom from drowning in “Samsara” or the cycle of life and rebirth. To escape this cycle is to finally reach enlightenment.
Our world seems submerged in inescapable suffering during these times of pandemic disease, persecution of autocratic regimes upon cultural and religious minorities and environmental degradation. The artist looks to the Golden Fish as a vehicle for achieving the courage to take action and for describing compassion for those who become submerged in these conditions. To imagine ourselves as Golden Fish, submerged in universally flowing waters is to recognize our unity as living beings.
Joy of the Golden Fish
Michelle Graznak | Joy of the Golden Fish | Encaustic | 12” x 12” x 1/2” | $400
Instagram: MichelleGraznakPhotoandArt
Artist Statement-Two Golden Fish
Spiritual symbolism winds its way throughout the encaustic works of Michelle Graznak and emerges as an offering of tranquility, solace and hopefulness. This series of 5 paintings borrow from the Buddhist Ashtamangala series of 8 auspicious symbols that represent offerings from the gods made to the Buddha upon his reaching Enlightenment. In the case of the Golden Fish, the symbol represents a state of conscious courage and fearlessness especially when confronted with adversity. Just as the fish swim freely toward the ocean, humanity seeks freedom from drowning in “Samsara” or the cycle of life and rebirth. To escape this cycle is to finally reach enlightenment.
Our world seems submerged in inescapable suffering during these times of pandemic disease, persecution of autocratic regimes upon cultural and religious minorities and environmental degradation. The artist looks to the Golden Fish as a vehicle for achieving the courage to take action and for describing compassion for those who become submerged in these conditions. To imagine ourselves as Golden Fish, submerged in universally flowing waters is to recognize our unity as living beings.
Birthday Wish
Michelle Graznak | Birthday Wish | Encaustic | 12” x 12” x 1/2” | $400
Instagram: MichelleGraznakPhotoandArt
Artist Statement-Two Golden Fish
Spiritual symbolism winds its way throughout the encaustic works of Michelle Graznak and emerges as an offering of tranquility, solace and hopefulness. This series of 5 paintings borrow from the Buddhist Ashtamangala series of 8 auspicious symbols that represent offerings from the gods made to the Buddha upon his reaching Enlightenment. In the case of the Golden Fish, the symbol represents a state of conscious courage and fearlessness especially when confronted with adversity. Just as the fish swim freely toward the ocean, humanity seeks freedom from drowning in “Samsara” or the cycle of life and rebirth. To escape this cycle is to finally reach enlightenment.
Our world seems submerged in inescapable suffering during these times of pandemic disease, persecution of autocratic regimes upon cultural and religious minorities and environmental degradation. The artist looks to the Golden Fish as a vehicle for achieving the courage to take action and for describing compassion for those who become submerged in these conditions. To imagine ourselves as Golden Fish, submerged in universally flowing waters is to recognize our unity as living beings.
Return to Sanity
Michelle Graznak | Return to Sanity | Encaustic with Motor | 20" x 26" x 3" | $1000
Instagram: MichelleGraznakPhotoandArt
Artist Statement-Two Golden Fish
Spiritual symbolism winds its way throughout the encaustic works of Michelle Graznak and emerges as an offering of tranquility, solace and hopefulness. This series of 5 paintings borrow from the Buddhist Ashtamangala series of 8 auspicious symbols that represent offerings from the gods made to the Buddha upon his reaching Enlightenment. In the case of the Golden Fish, the symbol represents a state of conscious courage and fearlessness especially when confronted with adversity. Just as the fish swim freely toward the ocean, humanity seeks freedom from drowning in “Samsara” or the cycle of life and rebirth. To escape this cycle is to finally reach enlightenment.
Our world seems submerged in inescapable suffering during these times of pandemic disease, persecution of autocratic regimes upon cultural and religious minorities and environmental degradation. The artist looks to the Golden Fish as a vehicle for achieving the courage to take action and for describing compassion for those who become submerged in these conditions. To imagine ourselves as Golden Fish, submerged in universally flowing waters is to recognize our unity as living beings.
Drink Up, Me Hearties!
Erica Chappuis | Drink Up, Me Hearties! | Acrylic, Fabric and Beads on Canvas | 30” x 40” | $1800
http://www.ericachappuis.com
Erica Chappuis has exhibited in numerous galleries and received awards. Her artist’s book illustrating Subcomandante Marcos’ story, “The Cave of Desire” is in the collection of the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington D.C., and also in the Museum of Erotic Art in Barcelona, Spain and the Kinsey Institute in Bloomington, Indiana, USA.
Chappuis lives and works on an island between two countries.
Ex Libris
Erica Chappuis | Ex Libris | Acrylic, Fabric and Pearls on Canvas | 24” x 26” | $1800
http://www.ericachappuis.com
Erica Chappuis has exhibited in numerous galleries and received awards. Her artist’s book illustrating Subcomandante Marcos’ story, “The Cave of Desire” is in the collection of the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington D.C., and also in the Museum of Erotic Art in Barcelona, Spain and the Kinsey Institute in Bloomington, Indiana, USA.
Chappuis lives and works on an island between two countries.
The Somewhat Tarnished Eagle
Erica Chappuis | The Somewhat Tarnished Eagle | Acrylic, Fabric, Wood and Shells on Canvas | 24” x 36” | $1800
http://www.ericachappuis.com
Erica Chappuis has exhibited in numerous galleries and received awards. Her artist’s book illustrating Subcomandante Marcos’ story, “The Cave of Desire” is in the collection of the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington D.C., and also in the Museum of Erotic Art in Barcelona, Spain and the Kinsey Institute in Bloomington, Indiana, USA.
Chappuis lives and works on an island between two countries.
NUTTY BARRY
Janice Redden | NUTTY BARRY | Photography | 11” x 14” | $115
In addition to sharing her passion for her subjects through the lens of her camera, photographer Janice Redden’s images also tell the stories behind the images she captures. Inspired by the works of artists such as Jim Hansel, Terry Redlin, and Doug Stein, Janice presents her viewers with her perspectives and vision of rural life, flowers, and nature, across her home state of Michigan and throughout the Mid-West.
In addition to her studio, Sunshine Photography, Janice, who resides in Monroe, Michigan with her husband, a kitty, and two canine companions; pursues dual careers in Dental Hygiene and Mortuary Science.
SILOS
Janice Redden | SILOS | Photography | 16” x 20” | $190
In addition to sharing her passion for her subjects through the lens of her camera, photographer Janice Redden’s images also tell the stories behind the images she captures. Inspired by the works of artists such as Jim Hansel, Terry Redlin, and Doug Stein, Janice presents her viewers with her perspectives and vision of rural life, flowers, and nature, across her home state of Michigan and throughout the Mid-West.
In addition to her studio, Sunshine Photography, Janice, who resides in Monroe, Michigan with her husband, a kitty, and two canine companions; pursues dual careers in Dental Hygiene and Mortuary Science.
TRANQUILITY
Janice Redden | TRANQUILITY | Photography | 22 1/2” x 26 1/2” | $290
In addition to sharing her passion for her subjects through the lens of her camera, photographer Janice Redden’s images also tell the stories behind the images she captures. Inspired by the works of artists such as Jim Hansel, Terry Redlin, and Doug Stein, Janice presents her viewers with her perspectives and vision of rural life, flowers, and nature, across her home state of Michigan and throughout the Mid-West.
In addition to her studio, Sunshine Photography, Janice, who resides in Monroe, Michigan with her husband, a kitty, and two canine companions; pursues dual careers in Dental Hygiene and Mortuary Science.
UNIVERSE
Janice Redden | UNIVERSE | Photography | 16” x 20” | $190
In addition to sharing her passion for her subjects through the lens of her camera, photographer Janice Redden’s images also tell the stories behind the images she captures. Inspired by the works of artists such as Jim Hansel, Terry Redlin, and Doug Stein, Janice presents her viewers with her perspectives and vision of rural life, flowers, and nature, across her home state of Michigan and throughout the Mid-West.
In addition to her studio, Sunshine Photography, Janice, who resides in Monroe, Michigan with her husband, a kitty, and two canine companions; pursues dual careers in Dental Hygiene and Mortuary Science.
TRAVERSE
Janice Redden | TRAVERSE | Photography | 11” x 14” | $115
In addition to sharing her passion for her subjects through the lens of her camera, photographer Janice Redden’s images also tell the stories behind the images she captures. Inspired by the works of artists such as Jim Hansel, Terry Redlin, and Doug Stein, Janice presents her viewers with her perspectives and vision of rural life, flowers, and nature, across her home state of Michigan and throughout the Mid-West.
In addition to her studio, Sunshine Photography, Janice, who resides in Monroe, Michigan with her husband, a kitty, and two canine companions; pursues dual careers in Dental Hygiene and Mortuary Science.
The Summer Cottage
Laura Taylor | The Summer Cottage | Acrylic | 20” x 20” | $125
https://artfullcooking.com
I have been a lifelong lover of art and painting. In 2017 I published a cookbook. Both the cover art and book were to remember and honor family and departed loved ones. In 2018 I left Arizona and moved to Michigan where my husband is originally from. We now reside in Grosse Ile Michigan on a canal of the Detroit River. I continue to paint regularly and look for ways to learn and develop skills as an artist. I also enjoy running with my husband, Gil, and competing in occasional races.
Desert Memories
Laura Taylor | Desert Memories | Acrylic | 12” x 14” | $75
https://artfullcooking.com
I have been a lifelong lover of art and painting. In 2017 I published a cookbook. Both the cover art and book were to remember and honor family and departed loved ones. In 2018 I left Arizona and moved to Michigan where my husband is originally from. We now reside in Grosse Ile Michigan on a canal of the Detroit River. I continue to paint regularly and look for ways to learn and develop skills as an artist. I also enjoy running with my husband, Gil, and competing in occasional races.
Storm Moving In
Laura Taylor | Storm Moving In | Acrylic | 12” x 14” | $75
https://artfullcooking.com
I have been a lifelong lover of art and painting. In 2017 I published a cookbook. Both the cover art and book were to remember and honor family and departed loved ones. In 2018 I left Arizona and moved to Michigan where my husband is originally from. We now reside in Grosse Ile Michigan on a canal of the Detroit River. I continue to paint regularly and look for ways to learn and develop skills as an artist. I also enjoy running with my husband, Gil, and competing in occasional races.
A Drive In The Country
Laura Taylor | A Drive In The Country | Acrylic | 8 x 10” | $35
https://artfullcooking.com
I have been a lifelong lover of art and painting. In 2017 I published a cookbook. Both the cover art and book were to remember and honor family and departed loved ones. In 2018 I left Arizona and moved to Michigan where my husband is originally from. We now reside in Grosse Ile Michigan on a canal of the Detroit River. I continue to paint regularly and look for ways to learn and develop skills as an artist. I also enjoy running with my husband, Gil, and competing in occasional races.
Green Fire
Winnie Chrzanowski | Green Fire | Altered Photography framed | 10” x 10” | $30
www.thewaterclosetwerks.com
I enjoy colors, textures, and shapes, and so I incorporate those facets of my world into my photography. I photograph my subjects from different perspectives or in small bits and pieces because I like how taking away the recognizable aspect of an object gives it an entirely different look and feel. To me, telling a story with photos is important. Sometimes I'm not sure what the story is, so that allows you to make up your own. I'm amazed at what others will find in my photos that I hadn't even considered when I captured them.
Icy Morning at Yosemite
Winnie Chrzanowski | Icy Morning at Yosemite | Photograph on glass | 11” x 11” | $60
www.thewaterclosetwerks.com
I enjoy colors, textures, and shapes, and so I incorporate those facets of my world into my photography. I photograph my subjects from different perspectives or in small bits and pieces because I like how taking away the recognizable aspect of an object gives it an entirely different look and feel. To me, telling a story with photos is important. Sometimes I'm not sure what the story is, so that allows you to make up your own. I'm amazed at what others will find in my photos that I hadn't even considered when I captured them.
Somewhere in South Carolina
Winnie Chrzanowski | Somewhere in South Carolina | Photograph on acrylic | 12” x 12” | $300
www.thewaterclosetwerks.com
I enjoy colors, textures, and shapes, and so I incorporate those facets of my world into my photography. I photograph my subjects from different perspectives or in small bits and pieces because I like how taking away the recognizable aspect of an object gives it an entirely different look and feel. To me, telling a story with photos is important. Sometimes I'm not sure what the story is, so that allows you to make up your own. I'm amazed at what others will find in my photos that I hadn't even considered when I captured them.
Ste. Claire Boblo Boat
Winnie Chrzanowski | Ste. Claire Boblo Boat | Photography - framed and matted | 13” x 11” | $45
www.thewaterclosetwerks.com
I enjoy colors, textures, and shapes, and so I incorporate those facets of my world into my photography. I photograph my subjects from different perspectives or in small bits and pieces because I like how taking away the recognizable aspect of an object gives it an entirely different look and feel. To me, telling a story with photos is important. Sometimes I'm not sure what the story is, so that allows you to make up your own. I'm amazed at what others will find in my photos that I hadn't even considered when I captured them.
Boneyard Beach Sunrise
Winnie Chrzanowski | Boneyard Beach Sunrise | Photography - framed and matted | 12” x 12” | $30
www.thewaterclosetwerks.com
I enjoy colors, textures, and shapes, and so I incorporate those facets of my world into my photography. I photograph my subjects from different perspectives or in small bits and pieces because I like how taking away the recognizable aspect of an object gives it an entirely different look and feel. To me, telling a story with photos is important. Sometimes I'm not sure what the story is, so that allows you to make up your own. I'm amazed at what others will find in my photos that I hadn't even considered when I captured them.
Late Night Walk
Richard Adams | Late Night Walk | Oil on Canvas | 28” x 34” | $250