At certain times of the year the grasses and bushes in the prairie are tall and thick, making access challenging. Once winter sets in they turn glorious colors of golds, oranges, browns and purples, then gradually the vegetation thins. During this time the prairies receive their winter visitors ~ birds on their migratory routes dipping down to forage and thrill us with their circling calls. Smaller birds dart from bush to bush. Often when I'm painting I will suddenly be surprised as a flock of small birds I hadn't noticed flees from a nearby bush, started by a noise I may have unconsciously made! I always return from these trips refreshed and rejuvenated!
As you will have read, our big event at Prairie Creek Lodge is just around the corner! The postcards are ready and are being mailed and we're inviting everyone we can to come and see what we've done and hopefully purchase our paintings to support art and the invaluable work being done by the Alachua Conservation Trust. ACT has gone out of their way to prepare a fun day for this project on February 25. It will run from noon to 9 p.m. One or the other of us will be painting on location throughout the afternoon, so you can come and watch and talk with us as we work. There will be live music and hors d'ouvres. This will also be a great opportunity to learn about the educational and land acquisition projects of the Alachua Conservation Trust. If you'd like more information, you are welcome to contact them directly at 352-373-1078. We hope to see you there!
Mary Jane Volkmann
