“Life Vessels” - Paintings and Sculptures of Cary Henrie

SEDONA, Ariz. - Sept. 17, 2014 - PRLog -- “Life Vessels” debut at James Ratliff Gallery, Hillside Sedona, 671 State Route 179, Suites A-1 & A-2, Sedona, AZ 86336, Friday, October 3, with an opening reception for the artist from 5-8 PM. The artist will make a short presentation at 6 PM.

Of interest to the viewer is Henrie’s introduction of authentically-harvested butterflies from South America and Southeast Asia then mounted on birchwood sculptures.  Henre’s iconic imagery has now become infused with the ephemeral butterfly, symbolizing metamorphosis, transformation and perpetuity.   Henrie’s art provides eco awareness and  education, sustainability for the rainforest and its butterfly population and income for the rainforest gathering peoples.

Henrie states: “Nature brings peace to one’s soul.  In “Life Vessels”, I bring nature right into the collector’s home!”  Exotic and symbolic of rebirth and change, these exquisitely colorful butterflies are fun.  They easily  complement the core of Henrie’s iconic images and symbols for which his body of work is recognized.  Henrie now invites the viewer to pass through another portal, one that promises a Henrie experience of calm and serenity.  “Life Vessels” are Henrie’s latest engagement with the ethereal as he aligns his art with sustainability initiatives in the Amazon/Asia.

         The Amazon Back Story

With a wingspan of almost eight inches, cobalt-blue Morpho butterflies are some of the largest in the world.  Morphos currently face habitat destruction and extinction. The Amazon Conservation Association is working with the indigenous Queros Wachiperi community to protect Morphos through sustainable harvesting and create a market for ecotourism in southeastern Peru where these butterflies reach their peak of diversity. . .8 species sited where the piedmont and lowland species meet. The result: one of the richest Morpho communities in existence is found along this narrow strip of land situated between the lowlands and the highlands. This project will provide a sustainable source of income for the Queros Wachiperi community, provide an opportunity for the public to experience this immense species richness, guaranteeing long-term preservation of these rare, threatened butterflies.

From the rainforest to the gallery, Henrie’s “Life Vessels” are amazing to view from both sides as the sculptures allow the insects to have the beautiful effect of “hovering” in flight in Sedona, Arizona!. Other insects and plant life are included in the wood cored sculptures along with writings, symbols, maps, compasses for which Henrie is known.

Henrie’s “LifeVessels” sculptures were recently awarded the Juror’s Award for Best Sculpture in the 2014 Main St. Ft. Worth Arts Festival. and 2nd place at the Beverly Hills Art Show.

For further information about the work of Cary Henrie or the upcoming exhibition in Sedona contact James or Patricia Ratliff, James Ratliff Gallery,

www.jamesratliffgallery.com,

phone:  928-282-1404,

email: FineArt@jamesratliffgallery.com,