As August comes to a close I’m reflecting on one of our favorite weekends.
There’s a certain time of year that feels even more magical than Christmas in our neighborhood—an event that captures the essence of our community in ways that nothing else can. As it heats up, tomatoes are ripening on the vine and yards start to decorate with red and green.
For 18 years, I’ve eagerly anticipated the annual Tomato Art Fest, and each time, it never fails to fill me.
As locals we have our own special tomatofest traditions. They ebb and flow through the years as families have grown. Melting in the heat as we don tomato themed attire for a 5k run or the parade, eat heirloom tomato pizza, and drink Bloody Mary’s at a music stage. Front yards become gathering spots for neighbors to catch up, but as the heat intensifies, we gradually retreat to shaded backyard oases and we rehash the day with red solo cup games.
Photo from Tomato Art Fest IG - Sunni Mockingbird
Of course going back to its roots, the main event is the Tomato Show Art Show. As it’s 21st year running I had the honor of showcasing three pieces this year from my latest series, Luminous Realms. Three paintings that encapsulate wonder. Each piece is inspired by the extraordinary events that unfolded this year, from the awe-inspiring solar eclipses, to the enchanting synchronous fireflies, and the mysterious Luna moths.
“Reverie" invites you into a sun-filled daydream where a mystical cicada takes center stage amidst a garden of tomatoes and calendula flowers. The cicada shimmers with a gold leaf texture around its edges, adding a touch of enchantment to this already magical scene. This painting is a celebration of the natural resilience and the beauty that can be found in the most unexpected places.
"Totality," captures the serene moment of a totality eclipse. A Luna moth, its edges shimmering with gold leaf, hovers amidst a garden of tomatoes and marigolds, embodying wonder that comes with witnessing such a rare celestial event. This piece is a reminder of the mysteries that lie beyond our everyday lives.
"Lunarie" transports you to a moonlit garden where a firefly twinkles amidst the tomatoes and chives under the glow of the lunar phases. The firefly’s edges are adorned with gold leaf, adding a touch of brilliance to this serene scene. This painting is a tribute to the magic of night and the quiet beauty that reveals itself when the world is bathed in moonlight.
These paintings are more than just artworks—they are windows into a world where nature’s wonderments take center stage, inviting you to pause and reflect on the beauty that surrounds us. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of enchantment to your home or to simply connect with the natural world on a deeper level, these pieces are sure to inspire and delight.
Each of these paintings are available for purchase, and I would be honored for them to find a new home where they can continue to inspire and bring a sense of curiosity. I hope that "Reverie," "Totality," and "Lunarie" will capture your imagination as much as they did mine.
