“Birds & Bees & Butterflies” is the creation of Mackinac artist Maeve Croghan, who has lived every summer of her life on the Island and has a deep affinity for its nature and beauty. She is a fourth-generation summer resident of Mackinac.

"My subjects are carefully chosen to convey certain emotions.  The paintings are composed to lead the viewer deeply into the painting, so they directly experience nature.  As out technological society progresses we become ever more removed from the natural world.  I believe this distance allows humans to be less caring and more destructive to the environment.  It is my hope that my paintings will transcend  the viewer into nature, heightening an understanding and awareness of our natural world," says Maeve.

“I am delighted, humbled and honored to participate in this wonderful project that will bring joy and happiness to all who come into contact with these magnificent creatures and also raise money for the worthy cause of the Mackinac Foundation.”

"Birds, Bees & Butterflies," aka, "Daisy," represents some of the beautiful
nature found on Mackinac Island.

On the underside of the turtle are the following quotes:

"Dedicated to my mother, Eileen Croghan, who shared with me her love of
nature. And, many thanks to Stu Stuart, Heather Kalmbach and Charlene Ullman for their help on painting 'Daisy.'"--Maeve

"Forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet and winds long to
play with your hair."--Khalil Gibran

Maeve is also the owner of “Maeve’s Arts” located on Main Street on Mackinac Island and “Campbell Street Gallery” in Grand Marais, Mich. She divides her time between Mackinac Island, Grand Marais and San Francisco.

While “Birds & Bees & Butterflies” was a work-in-progress, he was under the care of Maeve's professional turtle handler and Mackinac comedian, Stu Stuart.