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Art & Poetry by
Colleen O'Hara-Jackson

butterflutter@charter.net

The artist's "Herstory"

I  began drawing at an early age. Through the years I nurtured my natural ability in a number of ways. I minored in art at college and became an accomplished scenic painter. In the past few years I’ve nurtured my gift by illustrating for the magazine "The Harmony Bridge."

My work with butterflies started as an exercise and has transformed into a thriving business. It all began in April, 1998, when I returned from visiting Monet’s Garden in Giverney, France.

Walking the paths of Monet’s living masterpiece while in full bloom, and visiting his Paris museum, the Musée de l'Orangerie, was awe-inspiring. After observing Monet’s numerous famous paintings of water lilies -- created over many years, in different seasons and under different lights -- the idea of taking an image and repeating it over and over again began to emerge.

On returning home, I bought a .79-cent butterfly stamp and began what is now known as my butterfly series. The idea was to take an image and recreate it using different themes and colors. The first butterflies were very simple in both design and color, but over the years, they became much more complex. As I painted, I discovered that each image had a voice of its own. They not only named themselves, but had their own individual message. It’s been an amazing and exciting process for me. Now 100 butterflies later, I am ready to share a few of them with the world.

For centuries the butterfly has represented transformation. It has become the symbol of my life and has served as a catalyst for a deeper understanding of my life’s work. It is with great joy and excitement that I share my designs with you. I truly hope that you get pleasure and insight from their messages.
In light and love,
Colleen

   

Copyright © 2006 Butterflutters, Inc. All rights reserved.