The special exhibit, Echoes of Eden in a Rising Republic: Still Life and the Beauty of Becoming, an exhibition featuring a collection of thirty-seven still life paintings, opened on December 5, 2025. The well attended event was the first opportunity for the community to view the extraordinary paintings drawn from the Neal Milligan Collection.
The paintings featured the works of Charles Baum, Gustavus Adolphus Behne, William Mason Brown, Edward L. Custer, Joseph Decker, Adelheid Dietrich, Robert Spear Dunning, George Forster, John Francis, Virginia Granbery, George Henry Hall, George Harvey, Paul Lacroix, George Cochran Lambdin, I.L. Masters, Franklin Harrison Miller, William Rickarby Miller, Joseph Biays Ord, Rubens Peale, John Frederick Peto, Severin Roesen, Louis Rondel, Isabella Sullivan and Andrew John Henry Way.
The Museum has created a special commemorative catalog that contains high quality photographs of the paintings, as well as descriptions of the work. The book is available for purchase in the Museum Store.
Guests admired the works, while sipping on wine and munching on Hors d’ouevres. Neal Milligan was present for the opening, and he was more than willing to share his observations about the artwork.
The annual ornament sale, for the benefit of the Taber Museum offered an additional attraction to attendees. Ornaments created by local artists were offered for sale. The 2025 featured ornament entitled “Celebrating Still Life” is a signed, limited edition clay representation of a miniature painting inspired by Severin Roesen and created by Lisa Bitler. Additional artists included: Deb Parsons, Lampworked Glass; Max Ameigh, Pottery; Perry Bassler, Santas fashioned from forks; Becky Charles, fiber; Amanda Emig, Santas and snowmen; Theresa Phillips, gourds; Judy Steinhilper, fused glass; Victoria Stetts, Japanese Kimekomi & Kusudama; and Catheal Weiser, Temari Balls.
More photos from the event:
