"The inception of this project began with five artists—Ashley Gottlieb, Bobbie Ann Howell, Robin Stark, Tia Flores, and myself—collaborating on an exhibition at Oats Park Center in Fallon, NV. The theme of our group show was 'Pollination: The Gift of Chance in the Desert.' Ashley Gottlieb wrote, 'Similar to the artistic process, pollination is largely a game of chance. Pollinators might not fully grasp the impact of their actions; for instance, a bee gathers pollen and inadvertently transfers it to another flower, or a squirrel drops seeds while foraging. While artists aim for control over their creative journey, the most thrilling aspect often emerges when they surrender that control, allowing instinct and spontaneity to guide them. The notion of chance, in both pollination and art, served as a vital reference point for us as we prepared for this exhibition.'

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I invited each artist to create works on 8” hexagons, intending to visually connect them for marketing and as a focal point at the entrance of the Oat Parks Center galleries. Our diverse backgrounds encompass ceramics, printmaking, painting, pyrography, cut paper drawings, and sculpture. Together, our creations formed a narrative that transcended our individual visions. This idea blossomed into the Honeycomb Project, and in Fall 2024, I issued an open call for participation from artists in the region west of the Rocky Mountains with goal of at least 1,000 panel contributions.

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At first glance, a honeycomb may seem like a simple geometric structure, but a closer look reveals its intricate design and precision. Composed of numerous hexagonal cells, each one works in harmony to create a cohesive whole, serving specific purposes—whether it’s storing honey, providing a home for the queen bee, or nurturing the brood. In a similar way, individuals within a community unite, each bringing unique talents, skills, and roles that contribute to the collective's well-being and growth. This metaphor emphasizes interconnectedness through relationships, shared experiences, and common goals, laying a strong foundation for collective resilience and development. The Honeycomb Project reflects our connections to one another through our environment and shared spaces."

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- Candace Garlock

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Learn more about The Honeycomb Project at honeycomb2025.blogspot.com