We are delighted to welcome Caribbean American artist Malaika Ross of Easthampton to Bombyx for an exhibit of her contemporary abstract botanical paintings that runs throughout February. Malaika creates striking depictions of flora in Western Massachusetts, both native species and those that have been introduced to the region; immigrants of a sort. She integrates her studies in soil microbiology with her extensive studies and experience in the arts to paint vibrant and detailed studies of these plants. Each painting looks deeply at the plants featured, bringing a highly observant perspective to the flowers, leaves, seeds, and mosses. She captures something in each work that says something about both the subject and its creator. The opening reception is Thursday afternoon February 2nd at 5PM and all are invited.