Eyes Toward Nature
Spotlight Work by Mike Bily
April 24 - May 16, 2026
Elisabeth Flynn-Chapman Gallery
Artist Statement: Mike Bily
The above title is an invitation for humans to explore and witness the active world around them—the natural and over-looked environments outside their daily comfort. Whether it’s hiking through the isolated areas of a volcano, the hidden pristine forest of a National Park, or our own familiar neighborhoods, human intervention is apparent in varying degrees. This exhibit is an invitation to explore these surprising niches and their denizens, and for you to think: “I’ve seen that”... or to wish you had. My intent is to inspire. The hope is that you decide to explore that region beyond your door and to realize, with appreciation through observation, its value today and into our future.
Biography:
I’m totally absorbed with images that are minutely marvelous and are often taken for granted. I gather inspiration from mountains, oceans, bi-ways and parks, along with the in-depth walks I take when exploring my own city neighborhood of Bellevue in North Richmond, Virginia. I work in acrylic, oils, pastels, watercolors, and mixed media…choosing what best expresses the essence of the subject.
As an artist, my work leans towards figurative art. It can be perceived as alla prima brushwork or impressionism, and span abstraction and figuration. I attribute this to my spontaneous depiction of the subject matter that to the passing eyes may only record it as a blur. My objective is to capture these fleeting moments for others to witness and enjoy.
I believe art should not only be decorative but also tell a story…to educate and stimulate the viewer. The spectator should never stop learning with unexpected wonder and enjoyment.
Mike Bily
(804) 263-7943
Aladdin’s Rock Site: Bryce Canyon, Utah Medium: acrylics on canvas Art dimensions: 24" x 30"
Understudy Site: Bryan Park, Richmond, VA Medium: acrylics on canvas Art dimensions: 24" x 30"
Dinner For One Site: Arboretum, Asheville, NC Medium: acrylics on canvas Art dimensions: 18" x 24"
Pitcher Elegance Site: Lewis Ginter Gardens, RVA Medium: acrylics on canvas Art dimensions: 18" x 24"
Find Shelter Site: Mobjack Bay, Virginia Medium: acrylics on canvas Art dimensions: 24" x 36"
Twilight Timber Site: Smokey Mountains, TN Medium: mixed media on canvas Art dimensions: 48" x 24"
Cliff Colors Site: Rainbow Point, Utah Medium: acrylics on canvas Art dimensions: 48" x 24"
Lady Lake Site: James River, Virginia Medium: acrylics on canvas Art dimensions: 18" x 24"
Exploring Site: Bath County, Virginia Medium: acrylics on canvas Art dimensions: 18" x 24"
Straight Up Site: Bryce Canyon, Utah Medium: acrylics on canvas Art dimensions: 24" x 18"