Sophie Hager Sophie Hager

Sophie’s 35th Birthday Art Show

Birthday Art Show

This art show is a work of love and a complete experiment - artisitcally & organizationally. I truly don’t know what to expect, but I’m giving it my all.

I thought, “Why not do it myself?”. Instead of waiting for permission or invitation to show my work in a gallery, I’m renting out a common area in my apartment and figuring the rest out from there.

This is a journey of self-love. Giving myself permission to take up space and share my work with my loved ones. Thank you for being here!

Art Show Dedication: “On Grief and Peace”

My 35th birthday solo, self-hosted art show is dedicated to 1) our dog Kima, 2), the crows of Miami, and 3) my inner Artist.

Kima’s passing in November of 2025 hit me harder than I could have ever anticipated. Accessing joy was not available to me for a long time and I cooped myself up in my apartment to grieve and rest.

In the quiet moments alone, I found peace watching the birds visit my balcony. To me, peace now feels like the appropriate opposite to grief. A state of calm acceptance and presence.

Nature, specifically, birds, more specifically, crows, helped me find small peaceful moments during the pain.

An Accurate Quote from Amy Tan’s “The Backyard Bird Chronicles”

“Thanks to the birds, I have never felt cooped up staying at home. So much remains new, so much can be discovered… when watching birds, I feel free.”

My Goal for You

After experiencing the art show (in person or virtually on this website), I invite you to observe nature a little more carefully every day and stay curious.

“What is that bird?”, “The sky looks extra beautiful tonight”, “When does that tree bloom again? I’m looking forward to it.”

Staying curious about nature is a good way to stay present during hard times and to care for the environment around us.

If you’ve never noticed the crows of Miami perched in a palm or flying over the pool - I hope you do now!

The Artwork

I’m still working on the collection, but I can show you some behind the scenes! The collection will include oil paintings, watercolors, and gouache.

My First Thumbnails/Ideas for the Show

Mocked up on my iPad January 2026.

Why Crows?

Crows have been my favorite animal since I was a teenager. I love their intelligence, their family units, their love for shiny objects- which actually is a myth, haha.

I only started feeding local miami fish crows last year. After Kima passed, it was really nice to take care of an animal again.

It’s hard to explain the feeling of awe when a wild, intelligent, animal chooses to trust you. And then teaches their fledglings to trust you.

I truly treasure every moment.

Crows & Grief

“Crows will gather when your heart cracks. They’re not omens, they’re witnesses. Let them perch near your sorrow.”

Unknown source.

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