Enjoy Light Refreshments & Artist Talk Join us for an evening of art, conversation, and community! Light refreshments and snacks will be provided as we mix and mingle, enjoy the exhibit, and hear directly from the artist about her inspiration and creative process. About the Artist Melissa McCanna is a Washington State-based artist specializing in acrylic painting and mixed media. Her work is inspired by her travels, the landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, and her Mexican American heritage. She creates vibrant paintings of flowers, birds, and scenes that incorporate the colors, patterns, and imagery of Mexico, as well as ancient Aztec and Mayan motifs. McCanna’s narrative paintings on water charts and paper explore the intersection of the natural world and the built environment. Her extensive international experiences—including time spent in Japan, Turkey, Peru, Mexico, Rome, Prague, and Paris—have shaped both her artistic perspective and creative expression. In addition to her travels, her service in the United States Navy introduced a unique contrast between structured military life and the rich cultural environments she encountered, both of which influence her work. Her artwork can be seen at Front Street Gallery in Poulsbo, WA, a cooperative group of local artists. For more information, she can be contacted at melissamccanna@gmail.com. About the Exhibit Taking Flight is a collection of paintings created using acrylic paint and mixed media, including ink, gouache, and paper on stretched canvas. Through bold colors, layered textures, and intricate patterns, the exhibit explores themes of movement, transformation, and connection to place. Each piece tells a visual story that invites viewers to reflect on the beauty of nature, personal heritage, and the experiences that shape identity.