Paul Hugens and Kristine O'Hagan draw on the Connect to Nature mural. [Photo: Mary Schenkel]

The splendor of nature’s beauty has always been a favorite subject of artists, and with today’s innumerable threats to the environment, it has become an increasingly urgent reminder of the importance of its preservation.

This year, the Environmental Learning Center instituted a new program – Artwork to Educate and Inspire – and is inviting a diverse group of artists to display their work in two newly established galleries – the Tidal Gallery and the Lagoon & Wetland Room.

The first two artists, featured from January to June 2020, were Clyde Butcher, whose Living Water Series included his black and white photography of Florida’s Aquatic Preserves; and Sandra Johnson, whose vibrant exhibition was titled Florida Flourishes her Colorful Skirts.

The ELC recently hosted an ARTober Meet and Greet event, where attendees were introduced to the two current artists – nature photographer Brian LaPersonerie and pastel artist Lisa Rose – whose work will remain on view through November.

A lovely breeze off the Indian River Lagoon kept the mosquitoes at bay, as guests milled about the ELC campus, viewing the exhibitions and enjoying the musical talents of performer Gary Lenard Moore.

Attendees were also given the opportunity to contribute their own artistic talents to a pastel mural, where they were asked to draw how they connect to nature. One of the most impressive illustrations was that of local architect Staffan Lundberg, whose drawing was of a scuba diver planting seagrass.

“This is just one more way for us to get people connected to nature, so that they can feel a part of the natural world and learn to care about it,” said Barbara Schlitt Ford, ELC executive director, adding that they hope people will become part of the solution after learning about the various environmental issues.

LaPersonerie said his exhibit features a collection of outdoor nature photographs taken over time; each displayed as metal prints, which gives them a vibrant, modern look.

“I’m very thankful to have been chosen for the show here with the ELC and hope that it can really help people step back and get in touch with nature a little bit,” said LaPersonerie.

“I’m known as a colorist,” said Rose of her pastels, a showcase of landscapes, seascapes and skyscapes. “If you see my art, you’ll see it’s pretty vibrant colors.”

While there are already other artist applications in the pipeline, Schlitt Ford said there is a link on the ELC website where artists can apply and submit samples of their work to be considered.

“It just has to have a tie-in to nature,” she stressed.

For more information about the exhibits and the ELC’s myriad other activities and programs, visit discoverelc.org.