The Grove Gallery welcomes art enthusiasts to the duo exhibit, “If wishes had wings and trees could talk,” featuring the unique artistic expressions of Shelley Penner and Patti Dance. The exhibition opens on August 27 and will run through September 28, with a special artist reception scheduled for August 31 from 1 PM to 3 PM.

Shelley Penner, who describes herself not merely as an artist but as a creator and explorer, brings her eclectic vision to life through vibrant acrylic paintings. Her work transcends traditional artistic boundaries, incorporating elements from photography, fabric arts, and even sculpture. Shelley’s philosophy that creativity is a form of spiritual exploration is evident in her pieces, which often delve into the connection between nature and the divine.

In her artist’s statement, Shelley shares, “If wishes had wings, the beauty of nature would give us peace, the songs of birds would give us joy and the cycles of the seasons would give us hope.” Her works speak to the eternal cycle of life and renewal, echoing the words of poet Gerard Manley Hopkins about the enduring vibrancy found in nature.

Joining Shelley is Patti Dance, whose background as a medical laboratory technologist contrasts with her artistic pursuits. Patti’s work focuses on fabric bowls crafted with meticulous detail, reflecting her professional precision yet infused with her passion for the natural world. Her techniques include batik and hand-dyeing, often enhanced with intricate beading, resulting in pieces that are both visually stunning and rich in texture.

Both artists share a profound respect for nature and its narratives, a theme that unites their diverse works in this exhibition. “If wishes had wings and trees could talk” promises to be a sensory exploration of color, texture, and the boundless possibilities of imagination.