Between earth and moon

“Two Birds” has to be close to what the aurora borealis looks like. The oil painting on linen by Janice Nakashima is part of her exhibit Journey, up until March 26 at Axis Gallery, 1517 19th Street. Nakashima paints atmospheric, ethereal pieces but in vivid hues—here it’s rich purple, yellow and blue that flow, almost dance, like those intriguing northern lights. And, yes, there are two birds, diminutive but solid forms, with wings spread in the haze, flying over an outline of the Western Hemisphere.

In total contrast, “Phases” offers a stark, three-shot look at the silvery moon bathed in darkness. At first glance, its luminescence seems very simplistic, but something like a gravitational pull draws you back for another look. The exhibit also memorializes Nakashima’s deceased friend Marilyn Halevi, whose “Rock Series” offers a soothing, soft play of shadows and light on typically hard, organic shapes. For more information, call (916) 443-9900.