Nearing Conjunction, 2023, wool needle felting, 8 x 8 in. / 20.32 x 20.32 cm.

Nearing Conjunction, Kristine Kieper, 2023, wool needle felting, 8 x 8 in. / 20.32 x 20.32 cm.

The photo inspiration behind Nearing Conjunction was captured near the edge of the wilderness in northern Minnesota February 24, 2023, 5 days before the conjunction of Jupiter and Venus. The Moon halo and bright planetary alignment against the deep blue sky was stunning and a truly ethereal moment.