A new show at the Arts Council of Fayetteville | Cumberland County is offering a deeply personal reflection on vulnerability, strength, and transformation.
Artist Natalia Perez-Lozano created Where the Wild Becomes Divine, a body of work that explores the emotional complexities of the human experience. Feminine figures, symbolic elements, and bold compositions speak to themes of instinct, identity, and inner transformation.
The gallery invites visitors not just to view the art, but to feel it, question it, and reflect on their own stories in response.
“When people visit my show, I hope they see more than just the technical skill,” Perez-Lozano explains. “I want them to feel the meaning behind each painting. I hope they notice the composition, the symbolism, and begin to question the creative process behind the work.”
The gallery series is deeply personal to Perez-Lozano. She knows that art often reflects something unconscious that comes through her brush, but she hopes the themes are universal. She hopes to express clearly what she is thinking and feeling through her visual medium, but hopes visitors can bring in their own experiences.
The exhibition is a result of the Southeastern Artist in Residence program’s mission: to support mid-career artists by giving them time, space, and resources to focus on their craft. Perez-Lozano reflects on her six-month tenure at the Arts Council while preparing the final showcase.
“This experience taught me the value of consistency, talent, and staying curious. I gained confidence—not just in my themes, but in my ability to focus. That directly improved my technique. I feel like this exhibition reflects my growth as an artist in every way.”
In many ways, the gallery became a space for mutual discovery. Perez-Lozano found that the workshops and open studio hours she led as part of her residency shaped her work.
“Being able to talk about art with other artists and visitors, especially when kids came through on tours or when someone was genuinely interested in my painting and asked questions, was such a meaningful experience. Just being there, having those conversations, and seeing people connect with the work made the whole process feel alive and reciprocal. It wasn’t just about showing my art, it was about sharing something that sparked reflection and inspiration.”
It’s this engagement with the community that invigorated her process and shows in the gallery show.
The Arts Council’s SEAR program provided the framework for success culminating in the gallery show that brings the work to life. “I’d love for people to reflect on the complexity of human emotion, instinct, and transformation. I hope viewers see a part of themselves in the work, while also connecting to something bigger and more human.”
Where the Wild Things Become Divine will be on display Aug. 1 through 29. The opening reception will be held Aug. 1, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Arts Council building, 301 Hay Street.

(Photo: Lady Natalia Perez-Lozano works on a piece at the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County. Photo courtesy of the Arts Council)