Celebrate Nature and Art at the 27th Annual Wildlife Weekend in Bristol, Tennessee
Next month, Bristol, Tennessee will transform into a buzzing hub for both nature lovers and art aficionados with the arrival of the 27th annual Wildlife Weekend at Steele Creek Park. This two-day festivity, taking place on October 11 and 12, promises a whirlwind of artistic expressions and enlightening experiences centered around the theme: “Arts in the Natural World”.
Kicking off with Inspiration
The weekend will officially launch on Friday, October 11, at 6:30 PM with a welcoming reception followed by a keynote address from prominent artist and author Suzanne Stryk. Known for her stunning nature-inspired paintings, Stryk’s work has been showcased in various solo exhibitions across the United States. Her talk, titled “Taking the Pulse of Place: Connecting to the Natural World through the Arts”, is set to inspire attendees as she shares insights from her artistic journey through the landscapes of Virginia.
Not only will Stryk share her experiences, but she will also be available after her speech for a book signing of her recent publication, “The Middle of Somewhere: An Artist Explores the Nature of Virginia”. This book weaves together her love for nature and art and will be available for purchase at $20, so be sure to grab a copy!
Photography Contest Awards
As the evening unfolds, the excitement will build up to the Amateur Photography Contest awards ceremony. Whether you’re an adult or a youth photographer, this contest encourages creative minds to showcase their talent by capturing the breathtaking wildlife and natural beauties of Steele Creek Park. Cash prizes await winners in both categories! The stunning prints of the winning photographs will be displayed at the Nature Center throughout the weekend, giving everyone a chance to admire the artistic talent of local photographers.
Educational Activities for Everyone
The fun continues on Saturday, October 12, with a jam-packed schedule of educational programs designed to engage nature enthusiasts of all ages. Starting at 11 AM, various mini-sessions led by topic experts will dive into different aspects of wildlife and the arts.
First up, local wildlife photographer Matt Keller will be presenting a 30-minute session on wildlife photography. Afterwards, participants are encouraged to grab their cameras and join him in the park for an outdoor photo-taking adventure. This hands-on experience could be just what budding photographers need to enhance their skills!
Later at 11:45 AM, Vanessa Hawley from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency will present a fascinating session on Raptor Rehab. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to see live birds, including a red-tailed hawk, a great horned owl, and a screech owl, as she discusses the importance of raptor preservation and injury prevention.
Get Ready to Experience Nature
Admission to Wildlife Weekend is incredibly affordable! The only cost is the $2 per vehicle park entry fee. With space limited, it’s advisable to reserve your spot at the park’s designated website. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this event is not to be missed!
Mark your calendars and gear up to dive into a weekend filled with beautiful art, captivating wildlife, and educational experiences. The 27th Annual Wildlife Weekend at Steele Creek Park is a chance to connect with nature, meet fellow enthusiasts, and celebrate the art inspired by our natural surroundings. We can’t wait to see you there!
