"Monarch Clinging" by Betsy Mooney

Hospice of Santa Barbara's Art Exhibition and Open House

Betsy Mooney's On Tender Wings

On April 25th, we hosted an art exhibition open house to enjoy wine, refreshments and the photography of Betsy Mooney. Mooney's exhibit, entitled "On Tender Wings", features photos of butterflies, the symbol of Hospice of Santa Barbara. Mooney was inspired to take the photos in memory of her son Joshua who died in October 2005 at the age of 33. With much counseling through Hospice of Santa Barbara, Mooney gradually began to heal. The creative process of photography also provided healing therapy for Mooney. For a time it was easier for her to view the world through the lens of a camera. Photography allowed her to feel less vulnerable and less overwhelmed. Mooney's exhibit features butterflies, one of her favorite subjects and the symbol of Hospice of Santa Barbara. The ancient Greek word for butterfly is "psyche," which primarily means "soul" or mind". In Japan, a butterfly is seen as the personification of a person's soul; whether they be living dying or already dead.

Mooney will donate a portion of the proceeds from her art sales to Hospice of Santa Barbara, Inc.

Betsy Mooney's photography will remain in the Leigh Block Gallery through mid-July 2012.

To schedule a time to view Mooney's exhibit, please call Hospice of Santa Barbara at (805) 563-8820.