In the heart of Western Pennsylvania, amidst blooming flowers and vibrant colors, Stacey Pydynkowski has found her sanctuary—and her voice. A cancer survivor, artist, and advocate, Stacey weaves together the delicate threads of human experience and nature to create paintings that resonate deeply.
Stacey’s journey into art was born from her appreciation for the creative process. “I’m enchanted by the way pigments merge to convey emotion and depth beyond language,” she says. Her works blend traditional painting techniques with flower preservation, creating mixed-media pieces that are vivid tapestries of feelings, hope, and whimsy.
“My art is whimsical, emotive, and vibrant,” she says, describing her expressionistic, nature-inspired style. Through her work, Stacey documents and celebrates the beauty and messiness of the human experience. “Every brushstroke tells a story,” she explains, “and I invite you to populate each piece with your own feelings.”
Stacey’s personal journey, marked by triumph and struggle, deeply informs her art. At 26, she faced a life-altering diagnosis of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma after months of being dismissed by doctors. “I quickly learned I had to advocate for myself to be taken seriously,” she recalls. After enduring months of uncertainty and treatment, Stacey emerged victorious, her cancer in remission. This experience left a lasting impression on her life and art.
Stacey’s piece for the “Flight of Empowerment” exhibit at Songbird Artistry is a tribute to these themes. “I am creating a portrait using visual metaphors from nature to illustrate the strength and trials of being a woman,” she explains. For Stacey, “Flight of Empowerment” is a celebration of the endurance and spirit of women—past, present, and future.
She finds inspiration in Frida Kahlo and the countless unnamed women throughout history who overcame obstacles and pioneered change. “I feel indebted to all of them,” she says.
Stacey’s connection to the exhibit is a testament to community and collaboration. She first connected with Desiree Vuocolo, founder of LocalGood, during a virtual Women in Art panel early in the pandemic. Their bond grew, and Stacey became a proud LocalGood artist, sharing her work and message. She also follows Songbird Artistry closely, admiring their dedication to supporting local artists.
As she prepares for the exhibit, Stacey reflects on the role of art in society. “Art has the power to connect us, to heal, and to inspire change,” she says. Through her nature-inspired paintings, Stacey Pydynkowski continues to tell her story while inviting others to find their own narratives within her work.
Stacey Pydynkowski will be part of an upcoming exhibition at one of LocalGood’s partner galleries, Songbird Artistry, titled “Flight of Empowerment”. The show will run from September 13th through the end of the year. For more information, please visit Songbird Artistry’s website here.