Rachel Young’s intricate beadwork transform thousands of tiny glass beads into stunning compositions of anatomy, botany, wildlife, and celestial beauty. Drawing on the ancient Huichol tradition of pressing beads into beeswax resin, Rachel meticulously applies each bead by hand, creating artwork that transcends the boundaries between painting and mosaic. Her contemporary approach merges tradition with innovation, resulting in vibrant, textured pieces that invite viewers to connect with themes of healing, resilience, and spirituality. Each bead is a deliberate choice, yet part of a larger, harmonious whole. Rachel’s artistic practice communicates how she sees the world through intricate patterns and rich symbolism. The final element of Rachel’s work is the presence of light and its interplay with the surface of her mosaics. The reflective qualities of the beads bring her pieces to life, allowing light to dance and shift across their surfaces. This interaction between light, artwork, and viewer transforms each piece into an ever-changing experience. Rachel creates work that moves viewers to find their own meaning, fostering a profound sense of connection and inspiration.

Trifon Markov, the son of renowned artist Elena Markova, represents the fourth generation in a lineage of artists. His great-grandfather practiced the traditional Russian art of painting floral motifs on furniture, craft deeply rooted in the culture of northern Russia. During the time Trifon studied at a traditional art college, he traveled extensively across Europe and Ukraine, hitchhiking his way to explore original works of art, stained glass cathedrals, medieval tapestries, and illuminated manuscripts. These journeys profoundly shaped his artistic vision, blending classical foundations with the vibrant diversity of European art. After graduating, Trifon and his family relocated to the United States. Classically trained, he mastered traditional techniques but sought to carve out his own distinctive style. Inspired by the works of Matisse, Gauguin, and Van Gogh, he developed a unique fusion of medieval tapestry aesthetics with the bold, emotive energy of expressionism. Now based in Oregon, Trifon finds inspiration in the region’s stunning landscapes Through his art, he combines their dreamlike worlds with Oregon’s natural beauty, crafting pieces that are both deeply personal and universally enchanting.