Generating awareness through art, essays, and conversation to save the southernmost ancient glacial lakes in the world
ArtNature, a local collective of Indiana artists, writers, and scientists, is embarking on its next major project, “Indiana Glacial Lakes: The Art of Conservation,” to drive awareness about diminished lake water quality that has degraded ancient bodies of water in northern Indiana.
Indiana's glacial lakes offer peaceful retreats for homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The homes along these waterways are cherished generational treasures, carefully tended by Indiana families who have invested in their preservation and adapted to ecological changes. “Indiana Glacial Lakes: The Art of Conservation” will explore the beauty of these unique ecosystems—some of the southernmost glacial lakes on Earth—and their pressing conservation challenges.
Hoosier artists, writers, and scientists contributing to the project include Avon Waters, Carol Strock Wasson, Kristina Knowski, Rick Wilson, and John Kelty. Dr. Jerry Sweeten, Professor Emeritus of Biology and Environmental Studies at Manchester College and owner/operator of Ecosystems Connections Institute in Denver, IN is the lead scientist on the project.
“Glacial lakes are ‘natural lakes’ created by large pieces of ice that broke loose from the receding Wisconsin Glacier about 12,000 years ago,” said Sweeten.
“The glacial lakes in Indiana are some of the most southern glacial lakes in the world. They are a reminder of our fragile legacy of responsibility to protect and restore these natural gems.”
Previously, ArtNature published “Indiana Waterways: The Art of Conservation,” a similar project examining Indiana rivers, streams, and tributaries throughout the state. The 200-page book featured a collection of essays from environmentalists, journalists, and storytellers, paired with over 100 paintings in various mediums and styles to promote the conservation of Indiana waterways. Following the book's publishing, the paintings were displayed in exhibitions around the state and later sold at auction. The latest project, featuring Indiana glacial lakes, will also feature exhibitions across the state. This time, paintings will be available to purchase at the gallery.
“The artists believe so much in building awareness to this issue that they are painting the artworks at no cost” said Avon Waters, President and participating artist with ArtNature. “When doing the Indiana Waterways project, we artists did what we always did: paint landscapes with creeks and rivers, but with a goal of helping others see nature’s value to us all. We all lose nature’s beauty whenever any one of us loses any portion of it.”
The Glacial Lakes project features the state’s premier artists specializing in pastels, oils, and watercolor, alongside writings and essays from Indiana storytellers. The goal is always to raise awareness around Indiana’s natural resources, and inspire communities to take action that support the beauty of nature in their backyard.
“While the science may be well understood, it takes a community outside of the sciences to make the correct decisions and see the importance of financial investments. Once we see the vision for the intrinsic value of all life, even animals and plants who have no voice, we will make appropriate choices,” said Sweeten.
ArtNature invites you to learn more about the project at artnatureconsotrium.org to discover how to get involved and even consider donating to the project’s cause.
About ArtNature
The Art Nature Consortium (d.b.a ArtNature) is a non-profit organization that brings together people interested in nature and conservation to raise public awareness of issues associated with the conservation and preservation of Hoosier species, wildlife, landscapes, waterways, and other natural resources. Through art, writing, and public discourse, ArtNature works to inspire discussion that leads to a positive impact on the natural resources represented in their projects. To learn more about ArtNature and its mission, visit artnatureconsortium.org.
For questions, please contact us at artnatureconsortium@gmail.com.
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