Karlee Church. The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey. Marine Science (marine biology concentration) & Visual Art (painting concentration) majors.

"Scallop" – 14" x 18", oil

 "Moon Snail"  14" x 18", oil

"Whelk" 14" x 18", oil

Artists Statement: This is a series of three paintings, each a loose visual representation of a different type of shell.  These are meant to highlight the beauty of the natural world.

As a double major in both a science and an art, I am frequently asked the question of how I can enjoy two such different disciplines. I find the answer to be a very simple one; both science and art are, at least for me, ways to learn more about the world and more about myself as well. I feel my artwork largely reflects that idea; it incorporates many aspects of nature and the natural world. I feel that, as modern artists, sometimes we take for granted all of the natural beauty all around us, and focus solely on culture. We need to remember that the beauty of the natural world can be, and needs to be, part of our culture, not separate from it.