Missouri Mussels and Migrant Monarchs
2026
6″ x 6″
Glass, enamel paint, shells, copper foil, solder
$100
This small square depicts two different world experiences intermixing. The mussel shells were found on the Bourbeuse River in Missouri, at a spot where I have been visiting since I was a kid and have not moved far from as an adult. With my deep roots here in the Ozark foothills, I still get to experience the world when others come visit. Recently, I had the privilege of helping a mom and her two kids get back to Venezuela to be reunited with her husband after his protected status changed with the whims of politicians and he was abruptly deported. The mom’s faith and determination reminded me of the magic of monarchs finding their way through Missouri on their migration. This artwork shows our two world experiences – mussels and monarchs– woven into one.
Ellen Hughes