Olmost The Weekend: Rotating art exhibit at Phoenix Zoo aims to raise nature awareness
PHOENIX (FOX 10) -- There are lots of events going on this weekend, including the Waste Management Phoenix Open in Scottsdale. One of those events is a unique new art exhibit at the Phoenix Zoo.
The new art exhibit launches on Friday. and aims to give visitors a different type of experience with a rotating art exhibit
"The whole idea behind this is that the Zoo can bring more awareness to our conservation efforts, connect people to the natural world, and engage them to think how we are all intertwined," said Tara Henson, who has been organizing the event for several months, working with three regional artists to make it all happen.
"All of it conveys their vision of different types of nature, wildlife, conservation," said Henson.
One of the artists showcasing their work is April Howland. She became intrigued with wildlife at six years old, after a camping trip.
"In the middle of the night, we heard an amazing roar, and it was a mountain lion," said Howland. "Ever since that day, I've just been always fascinated by wild animals and how we cohabit together."
Howland says she's inspired by wild animals in their natural habitat. Her paintings are mainly done by oil paint, and has recently started using charcoal and resin.
"I feel good with what I'm doing, teaching people how to care for the natural world and try to inspire people to really dig into conversation efforts, and how we can keep our animals from going extinct," said Howland.
The paintings are already sparking conversation.
"We saw a young lady, she had her own camera and she was looking at the photographs that are up, and then the family was talking about it," said ___. "All of that matters."
There will be artwork from other artists, like Tania Bolin and Lawrence Finkel. All that is needed is a regular Zoo admission to get into the gallery, and paintings will be available for purchase. A portion of the proceeds will go back to the Zoo and their conservation efforts.