Casey Beal is a visual artist based in Meyersdale, PA, known for intricate depictions of the natural world through detailed illustration and expressive painting. Casey prefers portraying insects, birds, aquatic animals, and plants in her work with the aim of telling lesser known tales about the lives of these creatures. With a background in biology and a Master of Science in this field, her work bridges the gap between scientific observation and artistic storytelling, inviting viewers to explore nature’s overlooked or hidden elements with new curiosity and reverence. 

Frequently mixing media, Casey blends stippled ink drawing, colored pencil sketches, delicate watercolor washes, and surreal acrylic painting to create compositions that are both grounded in realism and infused with imaginative expression. Whether studying the fragile transparency of a mosquito’s wing or the bold structure of a beetle’s elytra, her art highlights the wonder and complexity of even the smallest living things.

Much of her creative process is influenced by in-field observation, biological studies, and a deep appreciation for the elegance of natural systems. Casey draws inspiration from her new home in Appalachia, preferring to focus much of her body of work on the flora and fauna of these beautiful and ancient mountains. Insects, in particular, have become central to her visual language as symbols of transformation, adaptation, and resilience. By presenting these creatures in a new light, she encourages a shift in perspective from what is often dismissed as insignificant or unpleasant to something worthy of awe and admiration.

Inspired by historical biological illustrations, Casey contrasts scientific rigidity with bold emotion-evoking backdrops. The interplay between fragility and strength, visibility and invisibility, and life and decay have become recurring themes in her work. She employs these motifs to represent the magnificence of animal and plant life and to bring awareness to the alarming rate of global biodiversity decline. She hopes to invite viewers to pause and reflect on the vibrant life that surrounds us, and to consider this life when making impactful decisions. 

Since launching her art business Samaran Selkie in 2024, she has exhibited her work in several regional group gallery shows including at Laurel Arts, the Bottle Works Ethnic Arts Center, the Cambria Community Arts Center, and the Gilchrist Gallery and Museum. She has also had solo art exhibitions with the Composition Art and Wine Gallery and also at local restaurants such as the Chubby Chipmunk. 

Casey is a member of the Allied Artists of Johnstown, is the administrative manager for the annual Western Maryland Artist Studio Tour, and is an executive committee member for the forthcoming Cumberland Living Arts Festival, debuting May 2026. Her work is part of a permanent installation on her alma mater college campus and has been featured in galleries, as well as artisan markets, festivals, businesses, restaurants, and cafes. She has partnered with these locations where her art and jewelry are available for purchase.

Through both gallery and community spaces, Casey continues to share work that sparks connection, wonder, and curiosity.