The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department will host an evening of art in nature at the Dead Creek Visitor Center in Addison on Thursday, Aug. 9, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.  This free event will consist of a short talk and refreshments at the Visitor Center, after which the group will venture outside to the wildlife management area for some nature exploration through art creation.
The evening will be led by Vermont Fish & Wildlife naturalist and artist Ariel Burgess.  Burgess is an ecological artist who works in art, conservation and education.  She helped develop the new Dead Creek Visitor Center including designing and painting its murals.
Burgess will talk about benefits of artistic observation, ecological art and help guide the group in an evening of plein air art, art created outside, on the beautiful Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area.
“Naturalists have long used art and the practice of intentional observation to learn about and connect with the natural world,” Burgess said.  “From Leonardo Di Vinci to John James Audubon to Charles Darwin, illustration has long been an important part of learning about nature.”
Non-alcoholic beverages will be provided for participants.  Bring your own materials; any medium that you are comfortable with is okay.  Bring a note book and pencil, colored pencils, paint or anything that works for you.  Be prepared to be and work outside.  All ages and artistic experience are welcome.  Preregistration is required by emailing [email protected]. Space is limited to 20.
“Artists and non-artists alike are encouraged to register,” Burgess said, “even if you haven’t drawn anything since fifth grade!”