Steven David and Anna Maria Johnson. Photo courtesy of Ann Murray

Embark on a captivating journey along the Shenandoah River as artists Anna Maria and Steven David Johnson unveil “Riverine,” an extraordinary art exhibition that seamlessly weaves together writing, photography, and design to celebrate the rich biodiversity of this cherished waterway.

Anna Maria and Steven David’s art exhibit is located on the main level of the Beverly Perdue Art Gallery in the John Kenny Forrer Learning Commons building at Bridgewater College. The exhibition opened with a reception in the gallery from 5-7 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 12, with an artist’s talk at 5:30 p.m. It was hosted by Michael Hough, ceramic and metal sculpture artist, associate professor of art, Bridgewater College. Riverine will be showcased Monday, Feb. 12, through Wednesday, March 27. The opening was well attended and enjoyed by all.

The program displays photographs and writing from their property located along the north fork of the Shenandoah River and borders Linville Creek. Steven David’s amazing photos represent many hours spent observing and patiently waiting for the window of opportunity to capture the essence of wild creatures and their habitat.

Lynn Cameron enjoying the story about Ms. Beaver. Photo courtesy of Malcolm Cameron.

“I can’t describe what you see when you look at his photos of the beaver or fox or heron. They are nothing short of magic, so you will just have to see for yourself!” Anna Maria declares.

Anna Maria creates her stories and illustrations by illuminating his clips. She ventures out on the river in a kayak experiencing the lives of these animals. She describes her work as being influenced by mediaeval graphic design and whimsical illustrations. She creates mixed media and wonderful stories based on her experience with the natural world. One specific story is an essay based on the life of a mother beaver.

She relates this to her own life, where children are becoming adults and leaving the family home. It’s something that we can relate to and tugs on our heartstrings.

As you step into the “Riverine” exhibition, prepare to be transported into the heart of the Shenandoah River’s vibrant ecosystems. Let the words, images, and design guide you through a celebration of biodiversity, inspiring a deeper connection with the natural world and a renewed commitment to safeguarding the treasures that lie within our rivers.

Headwaters Master Naturalist Anna Maria is the Project Coordinator with a collaboration of many contributors including HMNs that brings a wealth of expertise and diverse perspectives to the creation of the recent book, “Plant Ridge & Valley Natives: A Gardener’s Guide to Virginia’s Ridge & Valley Native Plants”. It is a beautiful and useful tool for anyone interested in gardening with native plants.

– HMN Ann Murray

Click on an image below to make it bigger, see captions and start a slide show. Photos by Ann Murray, Elaine Smith, Adrie Voors and Malcolm Cameron.