Welcome to 'Art-into-Nature'! An experiment that combines the beauty of art with the wonders of nature.
At its core, this outdoor installation celebrates biodiversity. It invites you to pause, soak in the beauty, and admire the incredible native creatures thriving in this forest. Through art, we uncover the wonders of animals and the important role they play in the complex ecosystem. Each discovery fuels our determination to preserve and care for our precious forest and its inhabitants.
Each artwork is meticulously painted on maple wood using acrylic and then transferred onto metal plates to ensure its durability outdoors. During this temporary installation, great care was taken to have as little impact on living trees as possible, leaving no trace, so the majority of the paintings were hung on dead tree stumps. If you would like to learn more about each of the creatures, look for the small black metal QR codes hanging next to each painting.
"Art into Nature" is an invitation to remind us of the role we share in valuing and protecting the natural world. When art and science join forces, we create a positive impact, preserve the planet, and shape a better future for everyone.
(Please read below for our dedication.)
We humbly give this offering to our community as a heartfelt tribute to this trail. The Piedmont trail we now cherish has meandered through the unceded ancestral homelands of Native Americans for millennia, long before European settlers arrived in the 1800s. In recognition of this history, we extend our deep respect to the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, a coalition encompassing the Coast Miwok and Southern Pomo groups. Their enduring connection to this land is invaluable.
Our gratitude also extends to Marin County Parks Blithedale Summit Open Space District for their dedicated preservation and maintenance of this park. Without their unwavering commitment and hard work, the rich tapestry of flora and fauna that have called this place home for countless eons would be at risk. If you share our passion for preserving this precious trail and its natural wonders, we kindly invite you to consider supporting these dedicated stewards. Your contributions will help ensure that future generations can continue to revel in the beauty and history of this remarkable place.
Finally, our sincere appreciation to our amazing neighbors who also love this enchanting forest we proudly call home. We are deeply thankful for your continuous support and enthusiasm for this ongoing experiment.