‘Re-presented nature’

”Forestland” (pencil and gouache on Strathmore paper), by Boston area artist Hilary Tolan, in her show “In This Place,’’ at Kingston Gallery, Boston,. May 3-28.

Ms. Tolan’s artist statement:

“Hilary Tolan takes viewers into a world where nature is re-presented. She references both suburban gardens and the ‘wild’ nature of the forest and field. Tolan exploits images of fragmented nature and its possible meanings. She explores the fact that nature which was once alive and embedded in an environment, that existed as a part of a system, is now extracted and defunct of its original purpose. Tolan asks the viewer to consider the nature of time. In her work, she reflects the desire to keep and save things. Thoughts of memory, imagined landscapes and longing pervade much of its quiet beauty.’’

Absorbing the forest

“Rhododendron Forest 1” (incised photograph) by Hilary Tolan, in her show “Emerge,’’ at the Kingston Gallery, Boston, through Feb. 14.

The gallery says that her “images, both delicate and fierce, encourage the viewer to slow down and absorb the stillness and intricacy they offer. Emerge is a collection of photographs and drawings initiated 10 years ago during a three-week residency and daily walks into an overgrown rhododendron forest. ‘‘