🦋 The Pretty Appalachian Pollinators Have Landed in Harrisonburg, VA

July 21, 2026

Appearances, Lovable Insects, MIL Approved!

Hello, I hope this update gives you a little happiness today.

When I first announced that the Pretty Appalachian Pollinators would exhibit at Hess Financial back in June, the walls were still waiting. Is it me or does June feel like three years ago?

They’ve finally alighted.

My Pretty Appalachian Pollinators exhibition is now on display at Hess Financial’s beautiful new Harrisonburg office through August 18, and seeing these paintings land in such a light-filled space has been pure joy. We have arrived!

I couldn’t be happier with how beautifully the artwork settled into the space. Thoughtfully designed with soaring natural light, rich colors, and modern architecture, the new office feels as though it was built to showcase art. Stephen Hess has worked hard to make it so. Every wall is adorned with amazing art and the space is designed as a gallery walk through.

Visitors are welcome to stop by Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to enjoy the exhibition. 306 East Market Street, Harrisonburg, VA.

And since hanging the show, it’s grown! A brand-new Monarch butterfly painting has joined the collection, bringing even more color to the walls!

…. and it’s stunning!

A photo of the framed Monarch on Butterfly Weed

Celebrate With Me at Two Special Events

🦋 Open House Reception

Friday, July 31 • 3:00–7:00 p.m.

Join me as Hess Financial celebrates their beautiful new location with an evening of art, conversation, and community. I’ll be there throughout the event and would love to meet you, answer questions about the paintings, and share the conservation stories behind each Appalachian pollinator.

There will also be a special raffle featuring an original Zebra Swallowtail watercolor that I created especially for the event.

🦋 Harrisonburg First Friday

Friday, August 7, 5-7PM

I’m honored to be Hess Financial’s featured artist during Harrisonburg’s monthly First Friday celebration. On the first Friday of each month, downtown galleries, businesses, and creative spaces stay open late, welcoming visitors to experience local art, meet artists, and enjoy an evening celebrating Harrisonburg’s vibrant arts community.

If you’ve never experienced First Friday, this is the perfect excuse to explore downtown, then stop by Hess Financial to see the exhibition and say hello.

This exhibition has become so much more than a collection of paintings. It’s an opportunity to introduce people to the butterflies and moths that steadfastly sustain our Appalachian landscapes—and to the native plants they depend upon. Every conversation sparked by these little wings helps spread awareness for the incredible biodiversity we share.

A heartfelt thank you to Stephen Hess and everyone at Hess Financial for creating such a beautiful home for this exhibition. I hope you’ll come see it for yourself.

🦋 I can’t wait to welcome you.

Please feel free to use the form below for commissions or gallery appearances. I will answer your request as soon as possible.