Between Blooms : Foraging beauty from the ordinary
Jodi Whalen
September 2nd - September 30th
Artist Reception September 14th 4pm - 6pm
Artist Jodi Whalen invites viewers into a world of vibrant contemplation with her new exhibition, Between Blooms: Foraging Beauty From the Ordinary opening September 2nd at Frog Hollow Gallery. This collection of original screen prints and mixed media works is a tender exploration of nature’s rhythms and the passage of time.
Whalen blends elements of sign-making, graphic design, and abstract painting to create a visual language that is both playful and expansive. Deeply influenced by movement, imagination, whimsy, and the temporary nature of beauty, her work invites viewers to slow down and appreciate the often-overlooked, fleeting delicacies of the world around us.
At the heart of the exhibition lies a series of original screen prints inspired by the dandelion, a resilient and often misunderstood plant. “I went out foraging for dandelions in the Intervale,” Whalen shares. “But as I spent more time observing and reflecting on these remarkable plants, I realized their true significance—the speed of this time of year, the power of adaptation, and the fleeting beauty of the present moment.” By focusing on this “underdog” of the plant world, Whalen invites viewers to reconsider their perception of what is worthy of attention.
“The dandelion, often dismissed as a mere weed, has captured my imagination,” says Whalen. “Its resilience, ability to thrive in the most unexpected places, and ephemeral beauty have become a constant source of inspiration.”
Through her art, Whalen seeks to cultivate a sense of tranquility and wonder. Each piece is an invitation to find new joy within the natural world, solace in the rhythm of the seasons, and a reminder to appreciate the often-forgotten gems that surround us every day. Between Blooms is a testament to the artist’s ability to find inspiration in the overlooked. By transforming the dandelion from a nuisance to a muse, Whalen encourages viewers to look beyond the surface and discover the extraordinary in the everyday.
Between Blooms will feature nine original screen prints, alongside mixed media works on paper and recipe cards.
MORE ABOUT THE ARTIST
Jodi Whalen is a self-taught artist living and creating in Burlington, Vermont. Nestled in her South End Arts District studio, she explores a deep connection to her Vermont community and the natural world through vibrant screen prints.
Raised by a talented sign painter, Jodi’s artistic journey began early, learning the art of lettering and layout. This foundation, coupled with her passion for nature, foraging, and whimsy, shines through in her work.
Currently, Jodi is captivated by the Vermont landscape; her prints reflect her own translation of the sun, soil, sky, wind, and spirit of life around her. Jodi’s work represents a deep appreciation for these intimate experiences with nature.
Jodi’s creative journey extends beyond printmaking. For over a decade, she owned and operated August First Bakery & Cafe, where she designed marketing materials, showcasing her graphic design skills.
Jodi’s artistic path is a testament to her lifelong love of art and her dedication to capturing the essence of Vermont’s beauty.
