Talented artist, Rebecca Haines, exhibition presents work that explores the mystery and pull that wild animals possess on her. Indigenous cultures the world over (and we all descend from cultures that were once indigenous to this planet) look to the animals as equals, as teachers. They study them, learn from them, respect and honor them. As humanity has become more focused on money and power (and all that entails), we have moved further and further away from the natural rhythms and balances of all living things on the planet. And in doing so, we have cut ourselves off from a great wealth of knowledge that would enable us to sustain our own lives and prevent us from endangering the lives of other living beings.

As Haines paints these beautiful mysterious creatures, she feels drawn into something larger than herself, possibly something that dates back to our beginnings or even earlier. Some life force calls to her and she feels compelled and obligated to respond. Nothing has ever brought Haines more joy than this very act of communication and creation. While her painting style does reflect a love of line, composition, and color, it also reflects the ineffable, temporary manner in which we live, passing through this sphere for a very limited amount of time. Nothing is permanent or solid, but is always in a state of flux, of change.

While in the act of painting these beings, Haines feels as if she, through the animal’s eyes is looking back at her. It’s as though a wiser more ancient “Rebecca” is reaching out through the form of a coyote or a deer to a younger inquisitive present day Rebecca. And therein the magic lies.

Don’t miss Rebecca Haines exhibition 5/24 – 6/6.