The Creative Path Of Motherhood Gallery Event

The New Local’s Annex, 713 Pearl St., Boulder

April 7—May 22

For the first time, The New Local has brought together a trio of artists for a two-part collective show that shines a light on the beauty and complexity of motherhood, creativity and the multiple intersections where the two meet and complement one another. In this evocative and heartfelt exhibit — supported by a grant from City of Boulder — all three artists present diverse and compelling work, foster inspiration and offer opportunities for fellow mothers to explore, create and connect.

In the first installment of THE CREATIVE PATH OF MOTHERHOOD, visitors can delight in the vibrant, mixed-media works of mother-to-be and self-taught artist Courtney Griffin. Her delicate works — featuring luminous, acrylic paint and embroidery on silk chiffon — were conceived during her pregnancy. The eye-catching pieces pay tribute to the body’s changing shape and emotions that surface when one is with child. Also in the initial phase, viewers can revel in the striking and layered mixed-media, floral creations of mother-of-two Noelle Miller. Her abstract works transport onlookers into imaginative and intricate ecosystems that brim with life and vitality. Both Griffin and Miller bring whimsy and an unrelenting sense of freedom to the canvas, delivering color palettes perfect for the spring season of new growth, fresh blooms and transformation.

The work of Griffin and Miller can be viewed Tuesday-Friday, 11a.m.-3p.m. & Saturday and Sunday, 11a.m.- 5p.m. or by appointment through May 5. The exhibit is free and open to the public.

As The New Local’s current ‘Artist in Residence’, Dutch-born artist Dani Loujo, a new mother, has been painting daily in the Annex studio. Dani will unveil her latest collection MOTHERHEART on May 6, ahead of Mother’s Day 2024, as the final part of THE CREATIVE PATH OF MOTHERHOOD. During her residency, Loujo’s lush, abstract oil paintings will be on display and she will lead a variety of workshops designed to engage fellow mothers. From art classes that aim to help lessen the symptoms of postpartum depression to sessions that dive deep into self-care for mothers, the array of offerings bring about rare invitations to share and soothe. Loujo will lead classes in mixed-media, watercolor and a bi-monthly women’s circle. She is also partnering with Community Roots Midwife Collective and Mother House to offer free programming to underserved members of our community.

Women’s Circles are slated for 4/8, 4/22, 5/6, 5/20, from 4:30-6p.m., participants can sign-up at thenew-local.org/collections/workshops/products/womens-circle. Sliding fee scale is available and all registration donations go towards The New Local’s community programming.

THE CREATIVE PATH OF MOTHERHOOD aligns with The New Local’s mission to support initiatives that improve the well-being of women and families. By fostering creative community and providing outlets for expression, we believe this program will have a lasting positive impact on the lives of new mothers in our city of Boulder. Visit thenew-local.org to keep up with ongoing events.