Photo provided to the Times Observer Kimberly Mickelson-Slocum’s painting Falling Stairway has been accepted into the Fallingwater: Artists' Inspirations exhibit.

Local artist Kimberly Mickelson-Slocum has been juried into Fallingwater: Artists’ Inspirations, an exhibition hosted by the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art (SAMA) in Ligonier Valley.

From May to August 2025, the exhibition features artists who participated in plein air workshops at Fallingwater, capturing the interplay of nature and structure at Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece.

Mickelson-Slocum’s accepted piece, Falling Stairway, presents a unique perspective on a lesser-seen architectural element of Fallingwater.

“This view, though less commonly highlighted, offered such a striking balance of light, shadow, and form,” she said. “The filtered sunlight through the trees, the glow on the stairway, and the deep shadows pushing the structure forward resonated with me in an intimate and profound way.”

The artist deeply appreciated the harmony between built and organic elements.

“I was drawn to how the stairway flows into the creek, much like the creek follows the land’s contours. That juxtaposition–solid construction blending effortlessly with something organic–resonated with me,” Mickelson-Slocum said.

This theme runs through much of their work, making the plein air workshop at Fallingwater a natural fit.

Frank Lloyd Wright’s principles center on organic architecture–designing buildings harmoniously with their surroundings. The artist sees a connection between this philosophy and Falling Stairway.

“Wright’s architecture guides people through space, directing them toward the next experience,” Mickelson-Slocum said. “The stairway in my painting does the same–it leads into the creek, which flows over the rocks into the waterfall. That movement between man-made and natural elements makes his designs timeless.”

Creating Falling Stairway challenged the artist, who is accustomed to the controlled environment of a studio.

“Painting on-site forces quick decisions as light and scenery constantly change. Finding the right perspective was tricky, but once I settled on the stairway’s connection to the creek, I knew it was right. It felt almost ethereal,” Mickelson-Slocum said.

The artist also drew personal connections to their home in Warren, which features a rushing creek.

“That personal connection made this painting even more meaningful,” Mickelson-Slocum said.

The artist felt validated when Falling Stairway was selected for Fallingwater: Artists’ Inspirations.The opening reception for Fallingwater: Artists’ Inspirations will occur on Saturday, May 10, from 2 to 4 p.m. at SAMA Ligonier Valley, inviting art lovers, collectors, and the public.

“I was really pleased! You never know if the juror will see what you see in your work,” Mickelson-Slocum said. “There were so many talented artists at the workshop, many of whom have been painting plein air for years. Having my work recognized was incredibly validating.”

Acceptance into the Fallingwater exhibition follows recent accolades for Mickelson-Slocum, including earning first place at the Erie Art Museum for her acrylic painting Waiting. She was also featured in the Northwestern Pennsylvania Artists Association (NPAA) 50th Anniversary Show at Gannon University’s Schuster Gallery.

The artist describes their style as blending abstraction and impressionism, focusing on mood and movement over realism.

“In Falling Stairway, I applied paint directly to emphasize contrast between light, shadow, and structure. Warm autumn tones and deep blues create atmosphere, while loose brushwork keeps forms expressive rather than highly detailed. The painting feels more like an experience than a static image.”

This approach draws viewers into the painting’s world rather than just presenting a scene. Having navigated juried exhibitions, Mickelson-Slocum is encouraging others to apply.

“Visit exhibitions, take classes, and always apply,” Mickelson-Slocum said. “It can be daunting and expensive, but it’s worth it. You learn from every experience, whether you get in or not. Don’t be discouraged by rejection–it’s all part of the process.”

With this success, the artist is looking ahead.

“I have pieces waiting for museum exhibitions and am applying to a juried art group in Pittsburgh. These groups provide great opportunities to exhibit, connect with artists, and share work.”

In addition to personal projects, Mickelson-Slocum continues teaching.

“I teach private lessons in my studio and will always continue,” the artist said. “Artists who shared their talents with me shaped my journey. Teaching lets me give back and help students develop their creative voice.”