The Bells Gallery is pleased to have a solo exhibition, Within the Shimmer of the Radiant Light, by Birmingham-based artist Merrilee Challiss, on view from October 3 to November 1.

This body of work explores the oracular, iterative, and generative qualities of the divine feminine archetype. The works on paper portray imaginal realms where divine feminine archetypes are expressed as tenders of the sacred and/or engaged in rituals of raising up the energy, or the Elevare Vires, Latin for “to raise up the energy or power.” This colorful iteration of Eyes of Protection is inspired by the trope of dragons as sacred protectors and is intended for both meditation and reflection. Sequins and glitter make the light dance and are an expression of radical joy, much needed in these times. 

ABOUT

Merrilee Challiss (b 1971, Cleveland, Ohio) is a multi-media artist who lives and works in Birmingham, Alabama. Challiss received a BA in Studio Arts (UAB 1994), an MFA in Sculpture (Penn Academy of Fine Arts 2000), and an M Ed in Visual Arts (UAB 2022). Challiss was Co-owner of BottleTree Café, a music venue, café, bar, and event center in Birmingham, Alabama, from 2006-2015 (www.bottletree.com).

Challiss’ circuitous journey includes working a stint as a window decorator in Berlin in 1992, working with a team to paint endangered species murals for the Center for Biological Diversity in Tennessee and Alabama, and teaching art (mostly drawing) to all age groups. Challiss received a “Window of Opportunity Award” from the Leeway Foundation in 2000, an Alabama State Council of the Arts grant in 2005, and was included in the Juror’s Pick / New American Paintings, Southeast Edition 2015. Challiss has exhibited her work from Portland, Oregon, to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Challiss collaborated with scientist, Dr Rick Strassman, on illustrations for his latest novel, released December 2024, Altered States: A Doctor’s Extraordinary Account of Trauma, Psychedelics, and Spiritual Growth, published by Simon & Scheuster.