Exhibit Description:

     Visitors to the Garden this summer will be greeted by some new life forms in the Aviary Gallery.  Local artist Mary Chabre has created a series of paintings inspired by carnivorous plants, titled "The Quiet Appetite", on view through mid-September. We are delighted to present the beautiful and detailed oil paintings. 

     In Mary's own words:  "Curiosity has always fueled my creativity. My goal is to create paintings that engage both visually and intellectually through the expressive use of color and form. In my earlier abstract work, narrative played little role; the focus was primarily on structure, movement, and the relationships between shapes and color.

     In this current body of work, however, narrative has quietly emerged. Inspired by carnivorous plants, these paintings explore the strange intersection of beauty and danger found in nature. The plants often take on personalities of their own—sometimes alluring and elegant, other times ominous or unpredictable.

     Through color, gesture, and composition, I invite viewers to look closely and experience that tension. These forms can evoke delight and curiosity, yet also stir unease or confusion. I am fascinated by this duality—how something visually captivating can also feel unsettling. Ultimately, my work explores the emotional space where attraction and apprehension coexist, encouraging viewers to engage with the unexpected character and complexity found within the natural world."