Unexpected Encounters

Today my daughter and I ventured to the Wetlands here in Las Vegas, Nevada. This place has always been a personal favorite of mine and where dear friends of mine have worked in the past. The lovely ladies took children on tours and there was always some animal scat or owl pellets to discuss! To share the wonderful world of the Wetlands with my own daughter is just an amazing experience. In my previous blog, “Signature Show 2025,” I wrote about the night of the art show. All of the educational discoveries inside the event center held our daughter’s attention again. She was fascinated with learning about ecosystems and life cycles of animals. We got to listen to coyote calls and be entertained with a pop up burrowing rabbit. The giant frog was her favorite today and she actually used the bullfrog call. Last time she was a bit fearful and today she was enthralled. Walking around and teaching her about the Wetlands was mesmerizing for me. I almost did not see the unexpected encounters of people looking at the paintings from the corner of my eye.

While in the little gift shop checking out dragonfly stuffed animals, a person approached me. I recognized him right away and realized I had spoken to his wife as I was running around with my daughter. It was my dentist who I had told about the show during my appointment. This was such a nice feeling to see someone that I know standing in front of all the paintings and enjoying them. We spoke for a spell and it was a great interaction. I love how art can bring people together. On my third circle through the gift shop, I ran into someone I did not know who told me the poet society was in viewing the paintings and they were taken with “Resolute Protector.” He told me they were discussing what they saw in the painting and all had a different perspective. I beamed with light right there on the spot! In past shows, I always ask, “what do you see?” It amazed me that they asked each other that when I was not even there. A pure dream come true! The other people I met worked with one of my friends a long time ago and we had an amazing conversation. Art really spreads love and happiness! They also loved our little girl. She is such a positive little person.

Filled with so much joy from these people inside the building, my daughter and I left with huge smiles on our faces. We walked around the Wetlands and saw birds, rocks, trees, and yes…dirt!! Watching her walk the trails and holding her tiny hand as she spotted birds was the best part of the day! Thank you for reading and I hope you all get a chance to get outside. Snow is coming here in Vegas and we are excited! Have a fantastic Friday night!

-Karen Hilliard

Also, if you would like another way to show support, I have a few options. “Buy me a coffee” which is a way for anyone to contribute to the creative process behind the paintings. Fuel the artist so to speak. Here is the link if you are interested. The funds go to supplies and gas to get out to the trails. I truly appreciate the support and the fact that you are liking these blogs, as well as my art posts. I am working hard to bring you all fresh content! Here is the link to my Instagram where I try to post daily. You can also find me on Facebook at my art page Karen Hilliard Art.

If you would like to, please leave your Social Media handle on the “Buy me a Coffee” page so I can thank you in my Instagram/Facebook Stories! 🙂

Thank you again for all of your support!