‘Delicate Balance’ Artwork Reminiscent of Noah’s Ark

By Cailin Acosta

ENCINITAS, California – While on a camping trip with my family at San Elijo State Beach in the laid-back Encinitas neighborhood of Cardiff-by-the-Sea—a place my dear friends Bill and Barbara Sperling call “our happy place”—I came across an inspiring artist showcase at the San Diego County Cardiff-by-the-Sea Library.

Elisabeth Sullivan’s “Magical Dreamscapes” exhibit is a visual representation of the impact nature has on the senses, fueled by imagination and dreams. She aims to create a peaceful, happy mood that evokes fond memories of a time or place while stirring curiosity. Sullivan leaves the story of each dreamscape open to interpretation, inviting the viewer to experience the scene in their own way.

With that in mind, I viewed her paintings through both a Jewish and an artist’s eye.

One acrylic-on-canvas piece, “Delicate Balance,” especially spoke to me. As we recently began rereading the opening chapters of the Torah, I was reminded of Noah’s Ark. In this painting, land animals such as a giraffe exist in harmony with ocean creatures like a sea turtle—each blending with the elements of the other’s world. Just as Noah gathered the animals two by two, each had to practice patience and coexist peacefully.

To me, “Delicate Balance” reflects that same message for humanity: though we are all different—in views, skin colors, and beliefs—we can and should strive to be kind to one another and respect our differences.

Sullivan’s “Magical Dreamscapes” will be on display at the San Diego County Cardiff-by-the-Sea Library from Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, through Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026.

At 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6, Sullivan will be present to share what inspired her paintings. Light refreshments will be served.

Sullivan can also be found at Studio 18, in the Spanish Village Art Center in Balboa Park. Click here for more information.

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Cailin Acosta is the assistant editor of the San Diego Jewish World.