Movement has always defined Tashi Draper’s life, so a serious knee injury that left her housebound created a profound sense of stillness, of being grounded when her instincts longed for motion. Watching birds outside her window during recovery, she felt their freedom deeply. With her spouse’s encouragement, she began translating that sensation into line through drawing and linoleum carving. As each plate took shape, the sweeping arcs, lift, and quiet power of flight emerged, offering a sense of freedom even when walking was not yet possible.

This exhibition presents a striking series of limited-edition prints inspired by birds in flight and the flowing paths they carve through the air. Each image is hand-carved into natural Marmoleum, inked with archival ink, and hand-printed on fine archival paper using a traditional etching press. The resulting works are richly embossed, tactile, and predominantly black and white, with occasional touches of colour used as subtle accents.

Though her leg has healed, Draper continues to feel the rhythm and movement of birds in every print she creates. Rooted in close observation of eagles, ravens, hawks, and owls on her Denman Island farm, this body of work reflects both a deep connection to the natural world and the healing power of creative practice. Framed and unframed works are available.

The Pearl is located across from the Comox Mall at 1729 Comox Ave. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10 AM to 4 PM. Admission is always free.