On Display Now Through January 2, 2025
Mollie Doctrow’s exhibit, "Nature’s Rhythms: Botanical Woodcuts," invites visitors to explore the rich biodiversity of California and beyond. Having spent years in art residencies across pristine landscapes—from the Everglades to the Mojave Desert—Doctrow brings a deep connection to the natural world into her art.
Through intricate woodcuts, Doctrow captures the essence of native plants and their habitats. Her process begins with on-site with sketches and photographs, which she then transfers onto Japanese shina wood for carving. The result? Stunning prints, some enhanced with airy watercolor, that balance light, shadow, and texture, creating detailed images of our natural surroundings
From California's coastal flora to the lush greens of the Everglades, each woodcut tells a story of place and memory. Visitors will leave with a newfound appreciation for the quiet beauty of native plants and the artistry that brings them to life.
About the Artist
Mollie Doctrow has held art residencies at Mojave National Preserve, Petrified Forest National Park, Big Cypress National Preserve, Everglades National Park, and Archbold Biological Station. These residencies provided access to remote and pristine areas, inspiring much of her recent work. Her work has been exhibited nationally and internationally.
Moving back to California five years ago, Doctrow has been re-discovering her home state and native California habitats. She is currently working on a public art commission for the city of Camarillo, a series of ten woodcuts depicting botanical and historical sites in Camarillo.
Her studio is located at Studio Channel Islands. Doctrow, MA, is Curator emerita, Museum of Florida Art and Culture, South Florida State College.
About the Museum
The Channel Islands Maritime Museum is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Channel Islands Harbor, in Oxnard California. Boasting a world-class collection of maritime paintings, ship models, and artifacts, the museum collection rivals some of the most renowned maritime collections in the world.
Museum visitors can explore centuries of maritime history through its stunning maritime art. The artwork is a journey through time, from the dramatic seascapes of 17th-century Dutch masters, through the evocative works of 19th-century English Romantics, to contemporary American maritime artists.
The maritime museum also showcases interactive exhibits and the intricate craftsmanship of ship model experts, including Edward Marple’s celebrated tall ship models. In addition, the museum hosts the largest bone-model collection outside of the Naval Academy Museum in Annapolis, Maryland. These exquisite models tell a mind-blowing tale of maritime history, about French prisoners of war who created these works of art while held captive by the British during the Napoleonic Wars. And these can be seen right here in Oxnard!
With two additional galleries displaying new exhibits regularly, a speaker series, community events and artist receptions, there is always something new to see and do at the museum. And with stunning views of Channel Islands Harbor, dotted with sailboats and playful sea lions, visitors are sure to embark on a one of a kind maritime experience.
Channel Islands Maritime Museum is located at 3900 Bluefin Circle, Oxnard, CA. Open: Thursday - Monday 12 PM - 4 PM (closed Tues & Weds) & 8-10 AM on the first Sunday of every month (during the car show).
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