Animal Collective is an ongoing series designed to spotlight the beauty, diversity, and vulnerability of the world’s wildlife. Each panel in the project features 25 animals, grouped by specific themes-from species found in my home state of Michigan to animals once endangered and critically endangered, and those impacted by habitat loss in Africa. This work is grounded in a deep concern for the alarming decline in global biodiversity. Between 1970 and 2020, populations of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish have declined by over 73%. Habitat loss, largely driven by human activity, remains the greatest threat to wildlife around the world. I believe we have a responsibility to confront these realities and use our work to inspire awareness, reflection, and action. Animal Collective is not only a tribute to the extraordinary creatures we share this planet with, but also a call to protect them. Through these panels, I hope viewers pause to consider the fragile interconnection between humans and animals- and the joy, wonder, and responsibility that relationship brings.

Tapestry of the Great Lakes - available for purchase

acrylic on canvas

48 x 48 in

121.9 x 121.9 cm