Celebrating 20 Years of Roots and Resilience

This April, C'ville Arts Cooperative Gallery is proud to feature a "tree-mendous" retrospective by long-time member Flame Bilyue. Titled "Safe Arbors," the exhibition marks Bilyue’s landmark 20th year with the cooperative and offers a journey through two decades of art inspired by the strength and serenity of trees. The show kicks off with a public opening reception on First Friday, April 3rd, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and will run throughout the entire month of April.

The Wisdom of the Woods

"Safe Arbors" is more than just a gallery show; it is a celebration of interconnectedness. Bilyue, a well-known art figure in the Charlottesville art and healing arts community, uses her signature painting style to explore how trees serve as a symbol of refuge and harmony. 

"What is more wonderful than a tree?" asks Bilyue. "They teach us how to stand firm in our values while remaining flexible enough to weather any storm. They remind us that we are all part of a vast, unseen network—a symbol of the peace and unity we are building together."

A Natural Retrospective

The exhibition features a curated selection of Bilyue’s most popular "tree" art from the last two decades, alongside a "surprise" look into unique, experimental projects she has delved into over the years. From her iconic flowing feminine trunks to her metaphorical "flaming chalice" branches, the work reflects a deep spiritual connection to the earth, and particularly the Blue Ridge landscape.

About the Artist

Flame Bilyue has been a staple of the Charlottesville creative community since 2003. Her work is characterized by vibrant color, empowerment themes, and a commitment to environmental consciousness. Her home and studio are powered by the sun, much like the trees that populate her canvases.

To learn more about the artist, visit her website: https://www.flamebilyue.com