DO YOU SEE WHAT I HEAR: MEMORIES OF THE HEART
Valerie Savarie . Miki Harder . Penney Bidwell
September 11 – October 5, 2025
Opening reception Saturday, September 13, 5 – 8:30
First Friday, October 3, 5-8:30
Music plays a vital role in our lives—we use it to learn, celebrate, grieve, meditate and move our bodies in a way that we cannot control. It stirs up memories from the past, moves us to tears, makes us want to jump for joy and connects us to a greater consciousness.
In “Do You See What I Hear - Memories of the Heart” Valerie Savarie, Miki Harder, and Penney Bidwell explore creating artwork based on twelve songs – each artist selecting four that have ties to their individual childhood. How do these artists interpret the songs similarly, and how do they differ? Explore the culmination of early memories from decades ago paired with seven months of experiences and pondering translated into clay, paper, and canvas.
Valerie’s picks:
Rossini “William Tell Overture”
Billie Holiday “I'll Be Seeing You”
Barbara Streisand “Don't Rain On My Parade”
The Aristocats Soundtrack “Everybody Wants To Be A Cat”
Miki’s picks:
Beethoven “Fur Elise”
Bette Midler “Wind Beneath My Wings”
The Beatles “Michelle”
Christina Perry “You Are My Sunshine”
Penney’s picks:
John Denver “Country Roads”
Bonnie Tyler “Total Eclipse Of The Heart”
Simone & Garfunkel - “El Condor Pasa (If I Could)"
Glen Campbell “Rhinestone Cowboy”
1: Miki Harder: “Freya Dreaming” $275
Oil on panel, 12" x 12"
John Denver “Country Roads”
For me this very familiar and happy song inspires feelings of melancholy and sleepy warm afternoons. Dozing in the afternoon sun with a rainstorm maybe brewing in the distance, I know the road is just over there…ready to take me back to my cozy house when I am ready. It’s the safety and security of childhood.
2: Miki Harder: "Michele With One "L"" $1400
Oil on canvas, 48" X 24"
The Beatles “Michelle”
“Michelle” was a very popular name when I was born, and Mom and Dad went for it. They chose the German spelling with one “L” so I got to correct every one as to my proper spelling for all of eternity (eye roll). I swear tho, every time this song came on, I thought it was for me! I was a spacey, dreamy little kid, oft found staring at flowers. If I can personify a raven, this would be me.
3: Miki Harder: "You're My Hero" $325
Oil on Panel, 14" x 14"
Bette Midler “Wind Beneath My Wings”
I feel it’s simply the title of this song that resonates with me. I have been blessed with remarkably supportive and loving parents. I was encouraged to “go and do” and come home with good stories. For high school graduation, I got luggage and a camera! So thank you to you Mom and Dad, for being the wind beneath my wings.
4: Miki Harder: "So Fast She Dropped Her Dapples" $275
Oil on canvas, 20"x10"
Rossini “William Tell Overture”
This rowdy piece of music has always made me want to jump on a horse and urge it into a full gallop. This winter I went to witness the skijoring in Silverton Colorado. This pink clad cowgirl swept the field with her dappled dynamo and this is her song!!
5: Miki Harder: “I Wanna Be A Cat!" $150
Oil on panel, 6” x 6”
The Aristocats Soundtrack “Everybody Wants To Be A Cat”
This A cat blowing a trumpet? Well Of Course!
6: Miki Harder: “That's A Rhinestone Cowboy!" $150
Oil on panel, 6" X 6”
Glen Campbell “Rhinestone Cowboy”
Couldn’t help myself… this is all I can see when I hear that title ...
7: Miki Harder: "Carousel Breach” $280
Oil on panel, 14" X 11"
Billie Holiday “I'll Be Seeing You”
“….in that small café
in the park along the way
the children’s carousel
the chestnut trees
the wishing well…….”
This summer, I went to the Art Institute of Chicago and fell in love with a carousel horse. I took a picture of her knowing I’d want to paint her someday but not reading the information tag for her. I later Googled this artwork and found that she was initially from an amusement park in Rock Springs Park West Virginia. The park ran successfully for almost 50 years, until it was dismantled in 1974 for a highway expansion project. She was a” middle row jumping horse” designed and carved by Daniel Muller, and possibly painted by Angelo Calsamilia from the Gustav A. Carousel Company about 1924. The Art Institute acquired her in 2014 and began their restoration of this beautiful animal ... I’ll be seeing you …
8: Miki Harder: "Eclipse" $380
Oil on panel, 24" x 12"
Bonnie Tyler “Total Eclipse Of The Heart”
Two Ravens , so smitten, silhouetted and eclipsing the setting sun behind them. Ravens mate for life and have sweet behaviors that strengthen that pair bonding. They preen each other’s feathers, have amazing, synchronized flights, vocalize and yes even gaze into one another’s eyes. Relationship goals!
9: Miki Harder: "I’d Rather be a Snail, Thanks" $425
Oil on panel, 9"x12"
Simone & Garfunkel - “El Condor Pasa (If I Could)"
I always loved the words and music of this song but never really thought about their meaning. Doing some research I learned the term “El Condor Pasa “or “The Condor Flies By” relates to themes of longing and freedom attributed to the Andean condor, a symbol of power and liberty. I love the juxtapose of things he’d rather be than not! I thought tho that a snail would be Quite content remaining a snail and has no qualms sayin’ so!
10: Miki Harder: "Fur Elise" $220
Oil on canvas, 10" x 8"
Beethoven “Fur Elise”
My Mom played the piano. I don’t recall her playing a lot, as she had two kids she was raising, but what I remember Most of All, was her playing Fur Elise and I thought it was the most beautiful sound in the world. Who was Elise? Her identity is unknown, perhaps a woman Beethoven was in love with. But here, in this painting, Elise is a beautiful grossbeak I found perished …. This is a homage to her.
11: Miki Harder: "Rain" $300
Oil on panel, 20" x 9"
Barbara Streisand “Don't Rain On My Parade”
There is so much about this song that is fodder for great imagery. Yet as I am painting, we are going through quite a drought and all can think is, “… Please please yes PLEASE rain on my parade!!” This Raven is thirsting for one drop to quench her spirit.
12: Miki Harder: “You Are My Sunshine" $250
Oil on panel, 12"x 12"
Christina Perry “You Are My Sunshine”
When I was a little girl, I drew a flower with a wee ladybug on it. My Mom noticed and delighted in that tiny detail. I ate up any and all praise from her, and even tho our relationship was wrought with traditional Mother/ Daughter “isms”, we were each other’s ear to bend, arms to cry in and mostly, sunshine to bask in.
13: Penney Bidwell: "Holding On" $425
Ceramic, embroidery thread, 6" x 11" x 3", heart 4" x 3" x 2"
Billie Holiday “I'll Be Seeing You”
“I'll be seeing you In all the old familiar places That this heart of mine embraces”
For this piece, I created a girl wearing a dress of skulls and holding onto a heart balloon. The balloon represents the emotional bond she has with those who have departed. She is desperately holding onto that drifting balloon, clinging to the love of the departed.
14: Penney Bidwell: "Red Butterflies" $425
Ceramic, 8" x 10" x 3", butterflies 2" x 1"
Beethoven “Fur Elise”
Beethoven composed this song about an unrequited love. Red, the color of passion, and butterflies with their fluttering wings represent the fleeting nature of love and the flutter of the heart.
15: Penney Bidwell: "The Return" $1800
Ceramic, Embroidery Thread 18" x 15" x 8"
Bette Midler “Wind Beneath My Wings”
“It might have appeared to go unnoticed But I've got it all here in my heart”
A raven’s wings merge into the hair of the woman she perches upon, as if they are part of her. The woman’s heart is exposed and adorned with hand-knotted arteries made of thread, forming roots. The raven has a piece of the “root” in its beak; the heart no longer belongs solely to the woman.
While creating this piece, I thought about my various homes—the house I grew up in and then the subsequent ones I later created. I traveled far and lived in many places. Eventually, I settled down with my husband and raised our two children. I began to grow roots. These are the roots of my heart, encompassing the love for my family, friends, and community. This piece is about leaving, discovery, and settling in.
16: Penney Bidwell: "Snail Hat" $525
Ceramic, 8" x 11" x 4"
The Beatles “Michelle”
Michelle, ma belle
“Sont des mots qui vont très bien ensemble
Très bien ensemble”
Snails often symbolize patience and perseverance. They take their time and eventually get where they are going. This song is about love, which takes patience and persistence. Additionally, when I thought about France, I thought about how much I love escargot!
17: Penney Bidwell: "Giddy Up" $425
Ceramic, 11" x 12" x 3"
Rossini “William Tell Overture”
Whenever I hear the William Tell Overture, I think of the Lone Ranger. Although I did not grow up watching the show, I remember seeing the iconic Lone Ranger with his cowboy hat and mask galloping on his horse. For my reimagining, I sculpted a little girl with her stick pony galloping around.
18: Penney Bidwell: "The Trilogy of the Crone: The Child" $395
Ceramic, 9" x 9" x 3"
Simone & Garfunkel - “El Condor Pasa (If I Could)"
“Away, I'd rather sail away
Like a swan that's here and gone”
I’ve heard this song throughout my life in different contexts—from my childhood, listening to Simon and Garfunkel, to hearing Andean flute players in Peru with my own children. I created a triptych of the feminine—maiden, mother, and crone. The maiden has a newspaper hat with a star on top. The mother has a nest with 2 eggs, and the crone has transformed into the Condor, free and taking flight.
19: Penney Bidwell: "The Trilogy of the Crone: The Mother" $395
Ceramic, 6" x 8" x 3"
Simone & Garfunkel - “El Condor Pasa (If I Could)"
20: Penney Bidwell: "The Trilogy of the Crone: The Crone" $395
Ceramic, 10" x 6" x 3"
Simone & Garfunkel - “El Condor Pasa (If I Could)"
21: Penney Bidwell: "Flame" $595
Ceramic & candle, 6" x 8" x 3"
Bonnie Tyler “Total Eclipse Of The Heart”
“Once upon a time there was light in my life
But now there's only love in the dark
Nothing I can say
A total eclipse of the heart”
This song came out right after my first boyfriend and I broke up. I was heartbroken and mourning the first love I had lost. I like the symbolism of light and a burning flame. The candle on her head will continue to burn until the heart is no longer broken and has been mended by dripping wax.
22: Penney Bidwell: "Secret Keeper" $595
Ceramic, antique rhinestones, 7" x 9" x 9"
Glen Campbell “Rhinestone Cowboy”
“I know every crack in these dirty sidewalks of Broadway
Where hustle's the name of the game
And nice guys get washed away like the snow in the rain”
As a child, I remember my father playing the guitar and singing this song. My father wasn’t always easy to know, and his behavior could be unpredictable. I gave the cowboy a rusted, beat-up heart, but it opens to become sparkling rhinestones. The contradictory, dirty heart and sparkling rhinestones represent my father’s unpredictable and complicated nature. He is a complex man— generous, and kind, but also angry and easily frustrated.
23: Penney Bidwell: “Rainy Day Parade”: $150 each
Ceramic, size varies
Barbara Streisand “Don't Rain On My Parade”
“I simply gotta march, my heart's a drummer
Nobody, no nobody is gonna rain on my parade!”
I took inspiration for this song directly from the title and thought about a rain cloud over a parade. The parade initially started as a standard American parade with a girl, a boy, a pageant queen, and a mayor. Then, I got inspired by a circus parade, and so this parade is filled with a menagerie of people, animals, and sideshow characters.
24: Penney Bidwell: "Rainy Day Parade: Cloud" $395
Ceramic & wire, 7" x 11" x 3"
Barbara Streisand “Don't Rain On My Parade”
25: Penney Bidwell: "Nesting" $1800
Ceramic, 10” x 19 x" 10"
John Denver “Country Roads”
“Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong”
Growing up, John Denver’s music often accompanied my family in our car. This song makes me remember my childhood with nostalgia. It was a time of possibilities. Both of my children learned to play this song on the piano. When I hear the refrain, “Take me home, country roads”, I remember growing up in rural New Hampshire. I dreamed of spreading my wings and leaving the small town. Later, when creating my own family, I thought about what values and experiences from my childhood I wanted to carry forth or discard. My children have flown the nest, and it’s my hope that they will find their way home.
This piece, ultimately, is about creating a home and returning home. “Nesting” is imbued with symbolism. Her hair has grown into a nest and she has become a tree with grounded roots. Her dress is made of bark, and leaves sprouted from her body. Arborglyphs (those carvings of people’s initials and images) adorn her body—a flower for beauty and two sparrows for my two children, the birds that come into the nest and eventually leave, hopefully someday returning. In the navy, sailors would traditionally get sparrow tattoos with the belief that the bird would guide them safely through the rough seas and help them find their way home. A robin sits on top of her head. Robins have special meaning to me. They have appeared in my life after the death of special people.
26: Penney Bidwell: "When Skies Are Gray" $1300
Ceramic, antique plinth, 14" x 22" x 11”
Christina Perry “You Are My Sunshine”
“You are my sunshine, my only sunshine.
You make me happy when skies are gray.”
The first two lines of this song conjure childhood memories from when I felt carefree and loved. I especially think about my grandmother. We were both so important to each other, and she was definitely my sunshine.
27: Penney Bidwell: "Dreamer” $1300
Ceramic, pure gold luster, antique plinth, 10" x 20" x 10"
The Aristocats Soundtrack “Everybody Wants To Be A Cat”
“Everybody wants to be a cat
Because a cat's the only cat
Who knows where it's at”
This “cat” has the face of a human but the body of a cat. “Everybody wants to be a cat.” These lyrics made me think about dreaming of being something else. I imagined a commonplace tabby cat dreaming of being a king. I gave him a crown made of gold and a royal tuffet upon which to perch.
28: Valerie Savarie, "One of Us" $300
Acryla gouache, thread, acrylic, wax on canvas panel in vintage frame, 5" x 7"
The Aristocats Soundtrack “Everybody Wants To Be A Cat”
My very first stuffed animal was a cat (which I still have). I am definitely a lover of cats and have two. This past April, I was helping my stepmom go through my dad’s things to decide what was trash, donatable or to keep. I found my childhood record of the soundtrack to The Artistocats in his vinyl collection. It brought back so many great memories - listening to the record and flipping through the story book that came with it. I have often thought what a wonderful life it would be being a cat!
29: Valerie Savarie: "Night Vision" $290
Altered book, acryla gouache, watercolor, 5.875”" x 3.75" x 1.125”
Book used: Pelleas & Melisande by Maurice Maeterlinck, published 1920’s
Bonnie Tyler “Total Eclipse Of The Heart”
I can remember this song from a time when MTV just played music videos. Somehow, we had free cable for several months and we would sneak down to the basement and watch MTV as my mom didn’t approve of television outside of PBS and Saturday morning cartoons. I remember the glowing eyes towards the end of the video - “bright eyes”. Since moths tend to be more nocturnal, I embodied the spirit of the song with some added bright eyes on its wings.
30: Valerie Savarie: "Night Ride WIth Papa Moon" $720
Hand cut altered book, acryla gouache, water color , 7.25" x 9.5" x 1.125"
Book used: The Home University Bookshelf, Vol IV "Picture Stories and Music", published 1945
Billie Holiday “I'll Be Seeing You”
Both of my parents loved music. I would say my dad had a more diverse appreciation for it. It was rare to be at either of their homes and not hear music in the background (we were not big TV people).
My dad passed away fairly unexpectedly last year the week after my show here closed. I was able to spend the last four days of this life with him. In those days we listened to many songs and reminisced about the past - he lived his last days to the fullest. One of his favorite songs was I’ll Be Seeing You and it is one of the last ones I remember listening to with him. He passed away on a full super moon and now moons will always be a symbol of him.
The girl on the carousel horse is representative of me, a child on a magical night ride to the moon to visit her papa who is peacefully keeping an eye on her.
31: Valerie Savarie: "My Sister" $320
Hand cut altered book, acryla gouache, water color, 6.125" x 4.75" x .5"
Book used: Pippa Passes by Robert Browning, published 1920's
Bette Midler “Wind Beneath My Wings”
As an adult, I find myself listening to lyrics more. As I revisited this song, it brought feelings of people supporting each other without looking for a thank you or some kind of compensation. It made me think of my younger sister who has a huge supporter so much over the years. She helps me take flight and keeps me steady in the air. I hope I do the same for her.
32: Valerie Savarie: "My Friend" $320
Hand cut altered book, acryla gouache, water color, 6.125" x 4.5" x .5"
Book used: Pelleas & Melisande by Maurice Maeterlinck, published 1920's
Bette Midler “Wind Beneath My Wings”
33: Valerie Savarie: "Loves Faded Memory" $700
Hand cut altered book, acryla gouache, water color, vintage thread, 8.875" x 11.625" x 1". Book used: Modern Music and Musicians, Vol II: The Great Composers, published 1918
Beethoven “Fur Elise”
I can remember hearing this song used in a commercial for a collection of World’s Greatest Love Songs that would air in between cartoons. There is much mystery over the piece - its true title is Bagatelle No. 25 in A minor. The story told is that Beethoven had written the words Fur Elise on the sheet music and that there must have been some romantic connection to her. In my piece, Elise is but a faded memory of love from long ago, becoming more mysterious as the decades pass.
Fun note: the cut ebony piano keys are made from a portrait of Beethoven from the book.
34: Valerie Savarie: "Her Heart Belongs To Another" $800
Hand cut altered book, acryla gouache, water color, vintage thread. 6.875" x 9.5" x 1.25". Book used: Librettos of the French and German Operas, published 1939
The Beatles “Michelle”
As mentioned earlier, my family was very much into music. Everyone in my family loved the Beatles. Sometimes, my mom would let us pick which music we wanted when getting ready for bed. The Beatles 1962 - 1966 or commonly known as the red album was a wonderful four record set we had (and which I still own). When planning out this piece, I couldn’t decide if Michelle was human or cat. Then it came to me that it could be both! Tiny Michelle kitty living inside the heart of human Michelle = true love.
35: Valerie Savarie: "My Way" $760
Hand cut altered book, acryla gouache, water color, vintage thread, , 5.625" x 8.5" x 1.625". Book used: The Class Room Teacher, Vol 11: Art, Geography, The Social Studies, Civics, History, Music, published 1928
Barbara Streisand “Don't Rain On My Parade”
My mom is a HUGE Barbara Streisand fan - as was her mom. I think other than classical, Ms. Streisand was the most played at mom’s house. While getting ready for the show, I watch Funny Girl - the play/movie that the song comes from. Fanny Brice was a successful, driven and unique woman and at the same time very down to earth. Yellow roses are part of the film (and roses are mentioned in the song) and yellow roses are also my mom’s favorite. Lyrics speak of beating her own drum, the rose of perfection, wanting a bite of juicy life (apple). The character in this one is me - doing my own thing, my own way and not letting a little rain get in my way. I have my umbrella just in case things don’t go quite as planned.
36: Valerie Savarie: "Hope" $780
Hand cut altered book, acryla gouche, water color, vintage thread, 7.25" x 9.5" x 1.125". Book used: The Home University Bookshelf, Vol IV "Picture Stories and Music", published 1938
Simone & Garfunkel - “El Condor Pasa (If I Could)"
These guys were favorites of both of my parents - I think even more so after they got divorced. To me the sparrow represents freedom - to fly the skies and land where ever you want, the hammer represents strength and a tool to get things done, the forest is the connection to nature - a place where we can be alone with our thoughts and to feel the earth beneath one’s feet (the embroidered French knots) represents a calmness and connection to things far greater than ourselves. I can see how all of this imagery would speak to someone navigating life on their own.
37: Valerie Savarie: "Mother's Memories of Childhood” $880
Hand cut altered book, acryla gouache, water color, vintage thread, 8.875" x 11.625" x 1". Book used: Modern Music and Musicians, Vol I: The Pianist's Guide: Theory, Technique, History, The Opera, published 1918
Rossini “William Tell Overture”
On Sunday mornings as a young child, I can remember watching the reruns of the black and white Lone Ranger show. It was a favorite of my mom’s too. She loved the opening music - William Tell Overture. I can remember her kicking us out of the house, putting the record on, cranking up the stereo full blast and doing her weekly clean of our home to this tune. Even if we were a few houses down, we could still hear the music and when we couldn’t hear it any more, we knew it was time to come home. In this piece, the Lone Ranger is my mom as a child, Hi Ho Silver Away (to get some house cleaning done).
38: Valerie Savarie: "Ten Cents A Ride” $800
Hand cut altered book, acryla gouache, water color, vintage thread, rhinestones, metal spring, 8.5" x 11" x .1". Book used:The Old West: The Cowboys, pub. 1974
Glen Campbell “Rhinestone Cowboy”
I can remember my dad playing this after my parents divorced. I know it was a hard time for him as my mom was the one who wanted to separate. I never really paid attention to the lyrics until revisiting as an adult for this show. I love how this song really is a story of never giving up on your dreams, no matter how bad things seem to be at the moment. I tied in another childhood memory of “riding the ponies” at the grocery store - such a fun treat after a well behaved visit shopping with mom. This little rhinestone cowgirl is in the spotlight of her dreams all for the cost of one dime.
39: Valerie Savarie: "Soul Set Free” $700
Hand cut altered book, acryla gouache, water color, 7.25" x 9.5" x 1.125"
Book used: The Bookshelf for Boys & Girls: Vol. IV: Picture Stories & Music", published 1948
Christina Perry “You Are My Sunshine”
Another song that I don’t think I ever knew all the lyrics to. Childhood memories always tied it to happiness, that there will always be someone there to love you, to shine brightly on you, to make you happy. Even though the lyrics get dark, I decided to focus on the child’s memory of happiness. A sun breaking through heart shaped clouds, shedding love on all.
40: Valerie Savarie: "The Road Home” $700
Hand cut altered book, 5.625" x 8.25" x 1.5". Book used: The Young Folks Treasury, Vol XII: Music and the Fine Arts, published 1917
John Denver “Country Roads”
It’s confession time, I remember this song from childhood however I didn’t like John Denver - having not grown up in Colorado, it wasn’t a sin to think so. Because of the dislike of his music (actually, just his voice), I found this piece quite challenging. The inspiration came very late in the game. A few weeks ago I spent a week up on our property in Cedaredge, CO (Western Slope) living in our newly converted short school bus. It was there that I realized that the country road leading to our land indeed did bring me home. I referenced our land and added in other elements to create the country road that leads to home. I am hoping that once I am living there full time, the fox that I have seen on occasion, will become my friend and welcome me home.
September 11 – October 5, 2025
Opening reception Saturday, September 13, 5 – 8:30
First Friday, October 3, 5-8:30
Music plays a vital role in our lives—we use it to learn, celebrate, grieve, meditate and move our bodies in a way that we cannot control. It stirs up memories from the past, moves us to tears, makes us want to jump for joy and connects us to a greater consciousness.
In “Do You See What I Hear - Memories of the Heart” Valerie Savarie, Miki Harder, and Penney Bidwell explore creating artwork based on twelve songs – each artist selecting four that have ties to their individual childhood. How do these artists interpret the songs similarly, and how do they differ? Explore the culmination of early memories from decades ago paired with seven months of experiences and pondering translated into clay, paper, and canvas.
Valerie’s picks:
Rossini “William Tell Overture”
Billie Holiday “I'll Be Seeing You”
Barbara Streisand “Don't Rain On My Parade”
The Aristocats Soundtrack “Everybody Wants To Be A Cat”
Miki’s picks:
Beethoven “Fur Elise”
Bette Midler “Wind Beneath My Wings”
The Beatles “Michelle”
Christina Perry “You Are My Sunshine”
Penney’s picks:
John Denver “Country Roads”
Bonnie Tyler “Total Eclipse Of The Heart”
Simone & Garfunkel - “El Condor Pasa (If I Could)"
Glen Campbell “Rhinestone Cowboy”
1: Miki Harder: “Freya Dreaming” $275
Oil on panel, 12" x 12"
John Denver “Country Roads”
For me this very familiar and happy song inspires feelings of melancholy and sleepy warm afternoons. Dozing in the afternoon sun with a rainstorm maybe brewing in the distance, I know the road is just over there…ready to take me back to my cozy house when I am ready. It’s the safety and security of childhood.
2: Miki Harder: "Michele With One "L"" $1400
Oil on canvas, 48" X 24"
The Beatles “Michelle”
“Michelle” was a very popular name when I was born, and Mom and Dad went for it. They chose the German spelling with one “L” so I got to correct every one as to my proper spelling for all of eternity (eye roll). I swear tho, every time this song came on, I thought it was for me! I was a spacey, dreamy little kid, oft found staring at flowers. If I can personify a raven, this would be me.
3: Miki Harder: "You're My Hero" $325
Oil on Panel, 14" x 14"
Bette Midler “Wind Beneath My Wings”
I feel it’s simply the title of this song that resonates with me. I have been blessed with remarkably supportive and loving parents. I was encouraged to “go and do” and come home with good stories. For high school graduation, I got luggage and a camera! So thank you to you Mom and Dad, for being the wind beneath my wings.
4: Miki Harder: "So Fast She Dropped Her Dapples" $275
Oil on canvas, 20"x10"
Rossini “William Tell Overture”
This rowdy piece of music has always made me want to jump on a horse and urge it into a full gallop. This winter I went to witness the skijoring in Silverton Colorado. This pink clad cowgirl swept the field with her dappled dynamo and this is her song!!
5: Miki Harder: “I Wanna Be A Cat!" $150
Oil on panel, 6” x 6”
The Aristocats Soundtrack “Everybody Wants To Be A Cat”
This A cat blowing a trumpet? Well Of Course!
6: Miki Harder: “That's A Rhinestone Cowboy!" $150
Oil on panel, 6" X 6”
Glen Campbell “Rhinestone Cowboy”
Couldn’t help myself… this is all I can see when I hear that title ...
7: Miki Harder: "Carousel Breach” $280
Oil on panel, 14" X 11"
Billie Holiday “I'll Be Seeing You”
“….in that small café
in the park along the way
the children’s carousel
the chestnut trees
the wishing well…….”
This summer, I went to the Art Institute of Chicago and fell in love with a carousel horse. I took a picture of her knowing I’d want to paint her someday but not reading the information tag for her. I later Googled this artwork and found that she was initially from an amusement park in Rock Springs Park West Virginia. The park ran successfully for almost 50 years, until it was dismantled in 1974 for a highway expansion project. She was a” middle row jumping horse” designed and carved by Daniel Muller, and possibly painted by Angelo Calsamilia from the Gustav A. Carousel Company about 1924. The Art Institute acquired her in 2014 and began their restoration of this beautiful animal ... I’ll be seeing you …
8: Miki Harder: "Eclipse" $380
Oil on panel, 24" x 12"
Bonnie Tyler “Total Eclipse Of The Heart”
Two Ravens , so smitten, silhouetted and eclipsing the setting sun behind them. Ravens mate for life and have sweet behaviors that strengthen that pair bonding. They preen each other’s feathers, have amazing, synchronized flights, vocalize and yes even gaze into one another’s eyes. Relationship goals!
9: Miki Harder: "I’d Rather be a Snail, Thanks" $425
Oil on panel, 9"x12"
Simone & Garfunkel - “El Condor Pasa (If I Could)"
I always loved the words and music of this song but never really thought about their meaning. Doing some research I learned the term “El Condor Pasa “or “The Condor Flies By” relates to themes of longing and freedom attributed to the Andean condor, a symbol of power and liberty. I love the juxtapose of things he’d rather be than not! I thought tho that a snail would be Quite content remaining a snail and has no qualms sayin’ so!
10: Miki Harder: "Fur Elise" $220
Oil on canvas, 10" x 8"
Beethoven “Fur Elise”
My Mom played the piano. I don’t recall her playing a lot, as she had two kids she was raising, but what I remember Most of All, was her playing Fur Elise and I thought it was the most beautiful sound in the world. Who was Elise? Her identity is unknown, perhaps a woman Beethoven was in love with. But here, in this painting, Elise is a beautiful grossbeak I found perished …. This is a homage to her.
11: Miki Harder: "Rain" $300
Oil on panel, 20" x 9"
Barbara Streisand “Don't Rain On My Parade”
There is so much about this song that is fodder for great imagery. Yet as I am painting, we are going through quite a drought and all can think is, “… Please please yes PLEASE rain on my parade!!” This Raven is thirsting for one drop to quench her spirit.
12: Miki Harder: “You Are My Sunshine" $250
Oil on panel, 12"x 12"
Christina Perry “You Are My Sunshine”
When I was a little girl, I drew a flower with a wee ladybug on it. My Mom noticed and delighted in that tiny detail. I ate up any and all praise from her, and even tho our relationship was wrought with traditional Mother/ Daughter “isms”, we were each other’s ear to bend, arms to cry in and mostly, sunshine to bask in.
13: Penney Bidwell: "Holding On" $425
Ceramic, embroidery thread, 6" x 11" x 3", heart 4" x 3" x 2"
Billie Holiday “I'll Be Seeing You”
“I'll be seeing you In all the old familiar places That this heart of mine embraces”
For this piece, I created a girl wearing a dress of skulls and holding onto a heart balloon. The balloon represents the emotional bond she has with those who have departed. She is desperately holding onto that drifting balloon, clinging to the love of the departed.
14: Penney Bidwell: "Red Butterflies" $425
Ceramic, 8" x 10" x 3", butterflies 2" x 1"
Beethoven “Fur Elise”
Beethoven composed this song about an unrequited love. Red, the color of passion, and butterflies with their fluttering wings represent the fleeting nature of love and the flutter of the heart.
15: Penney Bidwell: "The Return" $1800
Ceramic, Embroidery Thread 18" x 15" x 8"
Bette Midler “Wind Beneath My Wings”
“It might have appeared to go unnoticed But I've got it all here in my heart”
A raven’s wings merge into the hair of the woman she perches upon, as if they are part of her. The woman’s heart is exposed and adorned with hand-knotted arteries made of thread, forming roots. The raven has a piece of the “root” in its beak; the heart no longer belongs solely to the woman.
While creating this piece, I thought about my various homes—the house I grew up in and then the subsequent ones I later created. I traveled far and lived in many places. Eventually, I settled down with my husband and raised our two children. I began to grow roots. These are the roots of my heart, encompassing the love for my family, friends, and community. This piece is about leaving, discovery, and settling in.
16: Penney Bidwell: "Snail Hat" $525
Ceramic, 8" x 11" x 4"
The Beatles “Michelle”
Michelle, ma belle
“Sont des mots qui vont très bien ensemble
Très bien ensemble”
Snails often symbolize patience and perseverance. They take their time and eventually get where they are going. This song is about love, which takes patience and persistence. Additionally, when I thought about France, I thought about how much I love escargot!
17: Penney Bidwell: "Giddy Up" $425
Ceramic, 11" x 12" x 3"
Rossini “William Tell Overture”
Whenever I hear the William Tell Overture, I think of the Lone Ranger. Although I did not grow up watching the show, I remember seeing the iconic Lone Ranger with his cowboy hat and mask galloping on his horse. For my reimagining, I sculpted a little girl with her stick pony galloping around.
18: Penney Bidwell: "The Trilogy of the Crone: The Child" $395
Ceramic, 9" x 9" x 3"
Simone & Garfunkel - “El Condor Pasa (If I Could)"
“Away, I'd rather sail away
Like a swan that's here and gone”
I’ve heard this song throughout my life in different contexts—from my childhood, listening to Simon and Garfunkel, to hearing Andean flute players in Peru with my own children. I created a triptych of the feminine—maiden, mother, and crone. The maiden has a newspaper hat with a star on top. The mother has a nest with 2 eggs, and the crone has transformed into the Condor, free and taking flight.
19: Penney Bidwell: "The Trilogy of the Crone: The Mother" $395
Ceramic, 6" x 8" x 3"
Simone & Garfunkel - “El Condor Pasa (If I Could)"
20: Penney Bidwell: "The Trilogy of the Crone: The Crone" $395
Ceramic, 10" x 6" x 3"
Simone & Garfunkel - “El Condor Pasa (If I Could)"
21: Penney Bidwell: "Flame" $595
Ceramic & candle, 6" x 8" x 3"
Bonnie Tyler “Total Eclipse Of The Heart”
“Once upon a time there was light in my life
But now there's only love in the dark
Nothing I can say
A total eclipse of the heart”
This song came out right after my first boyfriend and I broke up. I was heartbroken and mourning the first love I had lost. I like the symbolism of light and a burning flame. The candle on her head will continue to burn until the heart is no longer broken and has been mended by dripping wax.
22: Penney Bidwell: "Secret Keeper" $595
Ceramic, antique rhinestones, 7" x 9" x 9"
Glen Campbell “Rhinestone Cowboy”
“I know every crack in these dirty sidewalks of Broadway
Where hustle's the name of the game
And nice guys get washed away like the snow in the rain”
As a child, I remember my father playing the guitar and singing this song. My father wasn’t always easy to know, and his behavior could be unpredictable. I gave the cowboy a rusted, beat-up heart, but it opens to become sparkling rhinestones. The contradictory, dirty heart and sparkling rhinestones represent my father’s unpredictable and complicated nature. He is a complex man— generous, and kind, but also angry and easily frustrated.
23: Penney Bidwell: “Rainy Day Parade”: $150 each
Ceramic, size varies
Barbara Streisand “Don't Rain On My Parade”
“I simply gotta march, my heart's a drummer
Nobody, no nobody is gonna rain on my parade!”
I took inspiration for this song directly from the title and thought about a rain cloud over a parade. The parade initially started as a standard American parade with a girl, a boy, a pageant queen, and a mayor. Then, I got inspired by a circus parade, and so this parade is filled with a menagerie of people, animals, and sideshow characters.
24: Penney Bidwell: "Rainy Day Parade: Cloud" $395
Ceramic & wire, 7" x 11" x 3"
Barbara Streisand “Don't Rain On My Parade”
25: Penney Bidwell: "Nesting" $1800
Ceramic, 10” x 19 x" 10"
John Denver “Country Roads”
“Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong”
Growing up, John Denver’s music often accompanied my family in our car. This song makes me remember my childhood with nostalgia. It was a time of possibilities. Both of my children learned to play this song on the piano. When I hear the refrain, “Take me home, country roads”, I remember growing up in rural New Hampshire. I dreamed of spreading my wings and leaving the small town. Later, when creating my own family, I thought about what values and experiences from my childhood I wanted to carry forth or discard. My children have flown the nest, and it’s my hope that they will find their way home.
This piece, ultimately, is about creating a home and returning home. “Nesting” is imbued with symbolism. Her hair has grown into a nest and she has become a tree with grounded roots. Her dress is made of bark, and leaves sprouted from her body. Arborglyphs (those carvings of people’s initials and images) adorn her body—a flower for beauty and two sparrows for my two children, the birds that come into the nest and eventually leave, hopefully someday returning. In the navy, sailors would traditionally get sparrow tattoos with the belief that the bird would guide them safely through the rough seas and help them find their way home. A robin sits on top of her head. Robins have special meaning to me. They have appeared in my life after the death of special people.
26: Penney Bidwell: "When Skies Are Gray" $1300
Ceramic, antique plinth, 14" x 22" x 11”
Christina Perry “You Are My Sunshine”
“You are my sunshine, my only sunshine.
You make me happy when skies are gray.”
The first two lines of this song conjure childhood memories from when I felt carefree and loved. I especially think about my grandmother. We were both so important to each other, and she was definitely my sunshine.
27: Penney Bidwell: "Dreamer” $1300
Ceramic, pure gold luster, antique plinth, 10" x 20" x 10"
The Aristocats Soundtrack “Everybody Wants To Be A Cat”
“Everybody wants to be a cat
Because a cat's the only cat
Who knows where it's at”
This “cat” has the face of a human but the body of a cat. “Everybody wants to be a cat.” These lyrics made me think about dreaming of being something else. I imagined a commonplace tabby cat dreaming of being a king. I gave him a crown made of gold and a royal tuffet upon which to perch.
28: Valerie Savarie, "One of Us" $300
Acryla gouache, thread, acrylic, wax on canvas panel in vintage frame, 5" x 7"
The Aristocats Soundtrack “Everybody Wants To Be A Cat”
My very first stuffed animal was a cat (which I still have). I am definitely a lover of cats and have two. This past April, I was helping my stepmom go through my dad’s things to decide what was trash, donatable or to keep. I found my childhood record of the soundtrack to The Artistocats in his vinyl collection. It brought back so many great memories - listening to the record and flipping through the story book that came with it. I have often thought what a wonderful life it would be being a cat!
29: Valerie Savarie: "Night Vision" $290
Altered book, acryla gouache, watercolor, 5.875”" x 3.75" x 1.125”
Book used: Pelleas & Melisande by Maurice Maeterlinck, published 1920’s
Bonnie Tyler “Total Eclipse Of The Heart”
I can remember this song from a time when MTV just played music videos. Somehow, we had free cable for several months and we would sneak down to the basement and watch MTV as my mom didn’t approve of television outside of PBS and Saturday morning cartoons. I remember the glowing eyes towards the end of the video - “bright eyes”. Since moths tend to be more nocturnal, I embodied the spirit of the song with some added bright eyes on its wings.
30: Valerie Savarie: "Night Ride WIth Papa Moon" $720
Hand cut altered book, acryla gouache, water color , 7.25" x 9.5" x 1.125"
Book used: The Home University Bookshelf, Vol IV "Picture Stories and Music", published 1945
Billie Holiday “I'll Be Seeing You”
Both of my parents loved music. I would say my dad had a more diverse appreciation for it. It was rare to be at either of their homes and not hear music in the background (we were not big TV people).
My dad passed away fairly unexpectedly last year the week after my show here closed. I was able to spend the last four days of this life with him. In those days we listened to many songs and reminisced about the past - he lived his last days to the fullest. One of his favorite songs was I’ll Be Seeing You and it is one of the last ones I remember listening to with him. He passed away on a full super moon and now moons will always be a symbol of him.
The girl on the carousel horse is representative of me, a child on a magical night ride to the moon to visit her papa who is peacefully keeping an eye on her.
31: Valerie Savarie: "My Sister" $320
Hand cut altered book, acryla gouache, water color, 6.125" x 4.75" x .5"
Book used: Pippa Passes by Robert Browning, published 1920's
Bette Midler “Wind Beneath My Wings”
As an adult, I find myself listening to lyrics more. As I revisited this song, it brought feelings of people supporting each other without looking for a thank you or some kind of compensation. It made me think of my younger sister who has a huge supporter so much over the years. She helps me take flight and keeps me steady in the air. I hope I do the same for her.
32: Valerie Savarie: "My Friend" $320
Hand cut altered book, acryla gouache, water color, 6.125" x 4.5" x .5"
Book used: Pelleas & Melisande by Maurice Maeterlinck, published 1920's
Bette Midler “Wind Beneath My Wings”
33: Valerie Savarie: "Loves Faded Memory" $700
Hand cut altered book, acryla gouache, water color, vintage thread, 8.875" x 11.625" x 1". Book used: Modern Music and Musicians, Vol II: The Great Composers, published 1918
Beethoven “Fur Elise”
I can remember hearing this song used in a commercial for a collection of World’s Greatest Love Songs that would air in between cartoons. There is much mystery over the piece - its true title is Bagatelle No. 25 in A minor. The story told is that Beethoven had written the words Fur Elise on the sheet music and that there must have been some romantic connection to her. In my piece, Elise is but a faded memory of love from long ago, becoming more mysterious as the decades pass.
Fun note: the cut ebony piano keys are made from a portrait of Beethoven from the book.
34: Valerie Savarie: "Her Heart Belongs To Another" $800
Hand cut altered book, acryla gouache, water color, vintage thread. 6.875" x 9.5" x 1.25". Book used: Librettos of the French and German Operas, published 1939
The Beatles “Michelle”
As mentioned earlier, my family was very much into music. Everyone in my family loved the Beatles. Sometimes, my mom would let us pick which music we wanted when getting ready for bed. The Beatles 1962 - 1966 or commonly known as the red album was a wonderful four record set we had (and which I still own). When planning out this piece, I couldn’t decide if Michelle was human or cat. Then it came to me that it could be both! Tiny Michelle kitty living inside the heart of human Michelle = true love.
35: Valerie Savarie: "My Way" $760
Hand cut altered book, acryla gouache, water color, vintage thread, , 5.625" x 8.5" x 1.625". Book used: The Class Room Teacher, Vol 11: Art, Geography, The Social Studies, Civics, History, Music, published 1928
Barbara Streisand “Don't Rain On My Parade”
My mom is a HUGE Barbara Streisand fan - as was her mom. I think other than classical, Ms. Streisand was the most played at mom’s house. While getting ready for the show, I watch Funny Girl - the play/movie that the song comes from. Fanny Brice was a successful, driven and unique woman and at the same time very down to earth. Yellow roses are part of the film (and roses are mentioned in the song) and yellow roses are also my mom’s favorite. Lyrics speak of beating her own drum, the rose of perfection, wanting a bite of juicy life (apple). The character in this one is me - doing my own thing, my own way and not letting a little rain get in my way. I have my umbrella just in case things don’t go quite as planned.
36: Valerie Savarie: "Hope" $780
Hand cut altered book, acryla gouche, water color, vintage thread, 7.25" x 9.5" x 1.125". Book used: The Home University Bookshelf, Vol IV "Picture Stories and Music", published 1938
Simone & Garfunkel - “El Condor Pasa (If I Could)"
These guys were favorites of both of my parents - I think even more so after they got divorced. To me the sparrow represents freedom - to fly the skies and land where ever you want, the hammer represents strength and a tool to get things done, the forest is the connection to nature - a place where we can be alone with our thoughts and to feel the earth beneath one’s feet (the embroidered French knots) represents a calmness and connection to things far greater than ourselves. I can see how all of this imagery would speak to someone navigating life on their own.
37: Valerie Savarie: "Mother's Memories of Childhood” $880
Hand cut altered book, acryla gouache, water color, vintage thread, 8.875" x 11.625" x 1". Book used: Modern Music and Musicians, Vol I: The Pianist's Guide: Theory, Technique, History, The Opera, published 1918
Rossini “William Tell Overture”
On Sunday mornings as a young child, I can remember watching the reruns of the black and white Lone Ranger show. It was a favorite of my mom’s too. She loved the opening music - William Tell Overture. I can remember her kicking us out of the house, putting the record on, cranking up the stereo full blast and doing her weekly clean of our home to this tune. Even if we were a few houses down, we could still hear the music and when we couldn’t hear it any more, we knew it was time to come home. In this piece, the Lone Ranger is my mom as a child, Hi Ho Silver Away (to get some house cleaning done).
38: Valerie Savarie: "Ten Cents A Ride” $800
Hand cut altered book, acryla gouache, water color, vintage thread, rhinestones, metal spring, 8.5" x 11" x .1". Book used:The Old West: The Cowboys, pub. 1974
Glen Campbell “Rhinestone Cowboy”
I can remember my dad playing this after my parents divorced. I know it was a hard time for him as my mom was the one who wanted to separate. I never really paid attention to the lyrics until revisiting as an adult for this show. I love how this song really is a story of never giving up on your dreams, no matter how bad things seem to be at the moment. I tied in another childhood memory of “riding the ponies” at the grocery store - such a fun treat after a well behaved visit shopping with mom. This little rhinestone cowgirl is in the spotlight of her dreams all for the cost of one dime.
39: Valerie Savarie: "Soul Set Free” $700
Hand cut altered book, acryla gouache, water color, 7.25" x 9.5" x 1.125"
Book used: The Bookshelf for Boys & Girls: Vol. IV: Picture Stories & Music", published 1948
Christina Perry “You Are My Sunshine”
Another song that I don’t think I ever knew all the lyrics to. Childhood memories always tied it to happiness, that there will always be someone there to love you, to shine brightly on you, to make you happy. Even though the lyrics get dark, I decided to focus on the child’s memory of happiness. A sun breaking through heart shaped clouds, shedding love on all.
40: Valerie Savarie: "The Road Home” $700
Hand cut altered book, 5.625" x 8.25" x 1.5". Book used: The Young Folks Treasury, Vol XII: Music and the Fine Arts, published 1917
John Denver “Country Roads”
It’s confession time, I remember this song from childhood however I didn’t like John Denver - having not grown up in Colorado, it wasn’t a sin to think so. Because of the dislike of his music (actually, just his voice), I found this piece quite challenging. The inspiration came very late in the game. A few weeks ago I spent a week up on our property in Cedaredge, CO (Western Slope) living in our newly converted short school bus. It was there that I realized that the country road leading to our land indeed did bring me home. I referenced our land and added in other elements to create the country road that leads to home. I am hoping that once I am living there full time, the fox that I have seen on occasion, will become my friend and welcome me home.