Toledo, Ohio - Isabella Kirkland, once the only licensed female taxidermist in New York City, now recreates animal forms in her paintings. In our free exhibition NOVA (New Species): Paintings by Isabella Kirkland, journey into a world of entrancing detail, alive with creatures until recently unknown. For each of her lushly painted still-lifes—which take a year or more to complete—Kirkland carefully researches and studies plant and animal life, in order to depict all faithfully and to ensure accuracy of scale.

In her newest series, NOVA (New Species), she examines recently discovered species of plants and animals, whether found in the wilds of the world’s remaining rain forests or in our own backyards.

Enhance your experience with the free audio tour, NOVA (New Species), and listen to Isabella Kirkland discuss her process, her works of art, and more. On exhibition through 5 October, 2008 at the Toledo Museum of Art.

The works of art in TMA's collection are frequently borrowed by other museums around the world . The following works of art are just a few of TMA’s treasures that have been requested to enhance national and international exhibitions. We encourage you to visit them abroad and welcome them back upon their return. Visit the Toledo Museum of Art at : www.toledomuseum.org/