The severity of the pandemic exacerbated many challenges older individuals face, including detachment, loss and isolation. Silver Linings appreciates the photographers’ experiences and fortitude during unprecedented times, and recognizes the objects, humans, animals, activities and spaces that provided them solace and peace.
Special thanks to the Coulter Cafe, and to the History Museum who generously hosted F/STOP workshops in their courtyard during the spring, providing a safe and welcoming outdoor space for participants to gather, discuss and share their work together.
Click on the images to view in full screen.
Christina Oborn
Cooking Comfort
Diane Smith
Locked Down, But Not Lonely
I found my comfort in nature. Where I can breathe, reflect, drop my hopes, fears and dreams in the branches of trees and blades of grass.
Robin Reese
Our River - Relax and listen to the river.
Katherine Holland
Opening Doors
Terry Johnson
Constructed by hand in spring 2021 by the photographer, these trails were created as an escape from the COVID pandemic using a shovel and hoe. ¾ of a mile, they loop around 12 acres of oak woodland.
Linda Ward
Very few things beyond family and friends have brought me comfort during the months that I viewed most of life from the confines my home. For me, the vast expanse of the outdoors, the beauty of nature, the dazzling sky, the golden glow of the afternoon sun, and the healing sight and sound of water-standing, flowing, crashing, reflecting-all have given me the ability to take a deep breath and feel at peace. This photo taken in Yosemite re-creates that utter feeling of peace that blooms at such beautiful surroundings.
Paul Brickett
I am thankful for visits from my wild animal friends. These photos were taken at my home.
Top left: Western Bluebird
Top right: Cooper’s Hawk
Bottom left: Dusty-footed Wood Rat
Bottom right: Western Screech-Owl
Maggie Timmons
My Bubble
Spending time with my loved ones. In a safe environment.
Marilyn Harvey
Pandemic Election: Despite a worldwide pandemic, American voter participation surged to the highest level in 120 years. In addition, experts say this was the most secure election ever. Those facts gave me great comfort in an otherwise tumultuous year.
Melody Johnson
My Lady Friend, Iris - My Lady Friend Iris has given me a lot of comfort in this time of COVID-19. She has bloomed six times. The flowers are so breathtaking. I love the color and texture of this iris.
Peggy Plumley
Pandemic Pose - Raising “Sunny” from pup to 1 year old during Covid kept us sane! And busy!
Steve Prinz
Toy Box -
Shuttered Stores
Shuttered Lives
Mailbox . . . an Unsung Hero
Aytu’ Kannəŋ Pachenti’ – All My Relatives (September 30 – October 4) is a free, cultural event series featuring public events that center and celebrate indigenous sovereignty, and is a part of RaceFoward’s Cultural Week of Action and Democracy. Click here to view the schedule and learn more.
Alongside Sierra Foothill Conservancy, the Arts Council is providing a free arts + environmental education day camp for students TK-6th grade enrolled in the Mariposa County Unified School District (MCUSD) or Sierra Foothill Charter School.
The Mariposa County Arts Council is pleased to announce 5 local artists and grassroots organizations have been awarded project grants from our new Art + Community grant program.