Press Release, Humane Indiana:
Chesterton, IN — Humane Indiana Wildlife is proud to announce a special collaboration with Kristina Knowski, acclaimed watercolorist and owner of Ancillaerie in Chesterton. Known for her evocative depictions of birds and meticulous attention to detail, Kristina was selected as the commissioned artist for the “All Along the South Shore” poster series, an ongoing project of the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority. The latest poster in the series, sponsored by Commissioner Jim Biggs, features Freya, a great-horned owl from Humane Indiana Wildlife, captured in Kristina’s signature style that blends artistic precision with an emotional narrative.
As an avid birder and nature enthusiast, Kristina draws inspiration from the world around her, often sketching directly from life and studying anatomical references from institutions like the Field Museum and Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. Her work has been featured in exhibitions such as Dreams of Martha and Facing Extinction, earning her recognition for highlighting the beauty and fragility of wildlife.
To celebrate the release of this remarkable piece, Ancillaerie will host a Meet and Greet event on Saturday, April 19, from 10 am to 1 pm. Guests will have the unique opportunity to meet Nicole Harmon, Senior Director of Humane Indiana Wildlife, along with Freya, the great-horned owl who inspired the artwork. The event will take place at Ancillaerie, 109 S Calumet Rd, Chesterton, IN 46304.
Following the event at Ancillarie, Nicole and Freya will cross the street to Tethan’s Candy & Confections from 1-2 pm, located at 221 Broadway Avenue, Chesterton, IN, where visitors can continue to meet the star of the poster while exploring a selection of Easter treats. Humane Indiana is excited to share that there are more exciting collaborations in the works with Tethan’s—stay tuned for updates!
Copies of the “All Along the South Shore” poster are available for purchase at Ancillaerie, Humane Indiana Wildlife Rehabilitation (located at 570 North 450 East, Valparaiso) and Humane Indiana Resale (located at 8149 Kennedy Ave, Highland), with proceeds directly supporting the Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center. The center is dedicated to providing medical care and rehabilitation for injured and orphaned wildlife, aiming for their successful return to the wild.
Nicole Harmon, Senior Director of Humane Indiana Wildlife, shared her excitement about the collaboration: “It’s truly inspiring to see local art and wildlife conservation come together in such a meaningful way. Kristina’s artwork not only captures the spirit of Freya but also helps raise awareness of the vital work our team does to rehabilitate and protect wildlife. We are so grateful for her talent and passion.”
“We are incredibly grateful for Kristina’s partnership and artistic vision,” said Brian Fitzpatrick, CEO of Humane Indiana. “Her beautiful artwork not only brings attention to our mission but also supports our ongoing efforts to rescue and rehabilitate wild animals in need.”
Kristina expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, saying, “The work of Humane Indiana Wildlife is something I deeply respect. Preserving and protecting our region’s wildlife is central to both my artistic and personal mission. I’m honored to use my art to support their vital work.”
For more information about the event or the poster series, please contact [email protected] or visit www.humaneindiana.org.