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‘We’re Back!’ Pair of Anne Peyton Brown Pelican paintings selected for Arizona Sonora Desert Museum exhibition celebrating species recovery

(Aug. 28, 2024) - “Turning To Preen” and “Two Of A Kind,” two Anne Peyton paintings of California Brown Pelicans, were selected for a special exhibition celebrating the recovery of two once-endangered species.

“We’re Back! Success in Vanishing Circles” focuses on the successful recovery of the California Brown Pelican and the San Esteban Chuckwalla after years on the Endangered Species list.

“Years ago, I was invited to submit a image featuring a Burrowing Owl family to the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum’s Art Institute for a permanent collection entitled ‘Vanishing Circles,’ Peyton said.

“When I lived in California, I would just sit for hours watching pelicans flying along the Pacific Ocean shoreline. I knew they were in trouble from DDT runoff into the ocean and it was gratifying to see more and more pelicans as years went by. Now I’m very happy to be participating in an exhibit that focuses on the species’ recovery.”

“Vanishing Circles” goal is to increase awareness of the threats to the rich biodiversity of the Sonoran desert and the Sea of Cortez that borders the desert. The exhibit also raises awareness about the importance of conservation for all species in the Sonoran Desert region and is a testament to the power of art in conservation education and the ongoing efforts of the ASDM Art Institute.

“Were Back!” runs September 7 through November 3 at the Desert Museum's Ironwood Gallery and is free with admission.