Forest and Sea

The Dolphin Gallery in the Seacliff Center is set to host an enchanting exhibit titled “Forest and Sea,” featuring the works of fine art photographer and painter Di Starr. The exhibit opens on Saturday, April 5, with a reception from 1 to 3 p.m., and will be on display through April 27.

In Di Starr’s own words:

“As a fine art photographer and painter living in coastal Jenner, I am endlessly inspired by the amazing beauty of the sea views and forests around me. My artwork involves a mixed media approach: Painting onto the surface of my photographs, I infuse literal images with the colors of my vision; integrating colors, feelings, and dreams with what I really see in front of me; finding ways to make everything work together.

My images can be seen as photography enhanced by painting, or painting using the photograph as departure point, depending on the emphasis of a particular image. Each painted photograph is unique.”

Art critics have lauded Starr’s work, describing it as “a multi-layered reality,” “rich in visual appeal and psychological meaning,” and “beautiful and ethereal.” They note that her images evoke a sense of simple yet majestic moments, half real and half dreamlike, with the power to renew and calm the soul.

Starr’s goal is to share these memorable moments with others, providing them with a source of solace and inspiration. As she poetically expresses:

Memories shared with

Poetry, paint and light — dreams

For the world to see.

A selection of Starr’s new painted photographs will be on view at the Dolphin Gallery, where she will be the Featured Artist from April 5 to 27, 2025. The opening reception on Saturday, April 5 from 1-3 pm promises to be a delightful event, offering attendees the opportunity to meet the artist and experience her captivating work firsthand.