
In the Balance: Stories of Survival, Stillness and Spirit
An exhibition by award-winning wildlife and adventure photographer Belva Hayden
August 13 - September 06, 2025
Through compelling imagery captured across Madagascar, Southeast Asia, Alaska, and beyond, Hayden offers a visual meditation on coexistence—between wildlife and humans, tradition and modernity, chaos and quiet. Each photograph reveals a moment suspended between vulnerability and resilience, illuminating the delicate relationships that define our shared world.
“From animals navigating shrinking habitats to communities adapting to rising waters, every image speaks to adaptation, endurance, and the spirit of survival,” says Hayden.
Celebrated for her blend of fine art and documentary photography, Hayden was awarded the 2024 People’s Choice Award in Axel’s Annual Photography Shoot-Out, further cementing her connection to the local creative community. Her work is deeply rooted in immersive travel, cultural respect, and a commitment to conservation. From the watchful eyes of a lemur in Madagascar to a fisherman framed beneath a drifting net, each image invites viewers to slow down and see the world with renewed wonder.
In the Balance is more than a showcase of wildlife photography—it’s a quiet call to notice, to honor, and to protect.
A casual gathering to support the artist and Axel’s is planned for Friday, August 15th from 6-8pm. At 7pm, the artist will discuss tricks, techniques, and their inspiration. Don’t miss the chance to be inspired. Light snacks and refreshments will be offered. All are welcome.

Vermont Watercolor Society
Watercolor Artists from Central & NE Kingdom Hubs Featured at Axel’s Gallery
September 10 - October 18, 2025
Whether you’ve just picked up your first brush or you’ve been painting for decades, you know the magic that happens when watercolor meets paper. This September, the Vermont Watercolor Society’s Central and Northeast Kingdom Hubs are bringing that magic to life at Axel’s Gallery.
You’ll find a collection of work that celebrates the full range of our medium — delicate washes, bold strokes, quiet moments, and vibrant scenes. On Saturday, September 13, from 5–7 PM, we’ll gather for a casual community reception. It’s a chance to meet fellow painters, swap ideas, and share in the joy of watercolor.
Bring your curiosity, your love for the medium, and maybe a friend who hasn’t yet discovered how remarkable watercolor can be.
Let’s celebrate the art we love — together.

2025 Axel's Gallery
Axel's Gallery provides opportunities for emerging artists to show locally and for our community to discover them. We are excited to present the following...
Exhibiting Artists:
Susan Smereka
Peggy and Shapleigh Smith
Edith Beatty
Belva Hayden
H. Keith Wagner
A VT Watercolor HUB Group Show
Photography Shoot-Out Winner
Community Focused Exhibitions:
Art Swap (May)
Photography Shoot-Out (January)
Smalls Group Exhibition (November/December)
