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Johanna Finnegan-Topitzer

Shadowbox art featuring a Flicker bird inside
"A Visit from a Friend," 18" x 23", acrylic on wood, Japanese paper, copper

Photo courtesy of Johanna Finnegan-Topitzer. Used with permission.

"A Visit from a Friend" refers to the belief among some Native American people that to hear a flicker call signifies that you'll receive a visitor soon. The flicker is associated with friendship and happiness. I enjoyed seeing one fly above the dark conifer forests of Acadia.

woman wears scarf and winter coat with trees and snow covered hills in background
Johanna Finnegan-Topitzer

Most of Johanna Finnegan-Topitzer's work looks at animals and our human relationships with animals. Her pieces often illustrate folktales or beliefs from different cultures around the world as she examines the human experience with the natural world. Her work also focuses on climate change and especially on the effects of it on animals other than ourselves. Her graduate degree in Folklore from University College Cork, Ireland and certificate in bookbinding from the North Bennet Street School in Boston provide the background for her interest and skills in her artform. Her work can be viewed on her website, www.jfinnegantopitzer.com.

Acadia National Park

Last updated: August 13, 2023