Inspired by Nature Conversation

What does art have to do with environmental conservation? How does an artist’s focus on the natural world – forests, fields, rivers, mountains, flora and fauna – help raise awareness of and appreciation for nature? Can nature-focused art be a catalyst for social change? Those questions and more will be the focus of a panel discussion between three painters and sculptors whose work focuses on nature, and a representative from a local nature conservation organization, on Dec. 8 at 2:30 pm at Upstairs Artspace, 49 S. Trade St., Tryon. The event is free and open to the public. “Inspired by Nature: A Discussion on Art and Environmental Activism,” will bring together Saluda artist Dale McEntire, whose paintings and sculptures are currently on display in the gallery, Asheville artist William Henry Price, and Rutherford County sculptor Michael Sherrill. Katie Breckheimer with MountainTrue will join the panel to share how their art can engage viewers with environmental issues♦