Participating artists have been asked to explore the contrasting and complementary aspects of nature in a piece of artwork, and many will present a short artist talk about their exhibition pieces. Artists participating include Gary Cooley, Hunter Jay, AnnMarie LeBlanc, Dale McEntire, Amy Noack, Valerie Schnaufer, Monica Stevenson, Kate Thayer, Cynthia Wilson and others.

In addition, local poet, “story-catcher,” and retreat leader Karen Luke Jackson will present a collection of poems about Western North Carolina. She lives in Flat Rock, North Carolina, in a cottage on a goat pasture, where she draws upon contemplative practices, family lore, and her love of nature for inspiration. A well-known and beloved presenter of poetry and storytelling, locals and other guests will appreciate the local subject matter highlighted in her reading.

Conserving Carolina will also be participating in the gallery’s Earth Day event. Hurricane Helene’s impact on Western North Carolina was devastating — including the effect this natural disaster had on Conserving Carolina’s trails and conservation properties. Jenn Tutor, Director of Development of Conserving Carolina, will give a presentation addressing the organization’s response to this crisis and to the ongoing work of protecting and restoring our region’s natural areas. Guests will learn about ways in which they can be involved with Hurricane Helene recovery efforts.