Amidst the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, a serene haven awaits art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike as Hidden Oaks Nature Center proudly presents “The Natural World Art Exhibit.” This free, all-ages exhibition promises to transport visitors into the heart of nature through a stunning collection of artworks by local talents. The exhibit will run from Friday, Dec. 1, through Friday, Jan. 26, providing a welcome respite from the holiday rush.
Open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesdays to Saturdays and noon to 4 p.m. on Sundays, the exhibit encourages attendees to immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural world. An enchanting opening night reception on Friday, Dec. 1, from 6 to 8 p.m. will set the tone for the weeks to come.
In collaboration with the Bolingbrook Arts Council, Hidden Oaks Nature Center aims to showcase the artistic brilliance inspired by the local environment. A diverse range of artworks, including oil, acrylic, watercolor pieces, and mixed media creations, will grace the exhibit, providing a rich tapestry of nature’s wonders.
Angie Trobaugh, facility supervisor at Hidden Oaks, expressed the center’s commitment to fostering collaborations within the Bolingbrook community. “We have always been interested in working within our community here in Bolingbrook to foster collaborations that promote the great things going on right in our own backyard,” said Trobaugh.
Suzy Lyttle, a program coordinator at Hidden Oaks, shared the excitement of bringing more artistic perspectives to the Forest Preserve District. “The Bolingbrook Arts Council has been a joy to work with, and we have so many more ideas for the future,” Lyttle said. “We hope this exhibit inspires visitors to get out of the house during the winter to view these beautiful artistic creations. The nature scenes are sure to warm your bones and spirit!”
Lyttle encouraged attendees to embrace the full experience by participating in the opening night reception, featuring a lantern-lit hike outdoors followed by cozying up around the fire to draw inspiration from the displayed art. The exhibit promises to be more interactive with a scavenger hunt activity and holiday nature crafts, inviting visitors to delve deeper into the details of the artworks.
For those eager to engage further, the exhibit introduces the People’s Choice and Kids’ Choice awards, allowing visitors to vote for their favorite pieces. An I Spy Art Scavenger Hunt adds an extra layer of excitement as attendees search for intricate details within the artwork, encouraging a closer exploration of the masterpieces on display.
“The Natural World Art Exhibit” at Hidden Oaks Nature Center is more than an art display; it’s an invitation to connect with nature and the local artistic community. As the winter season unfolds, this exhibit promises to be a beacon of warmth, creativity, and inspiration for all who venture to experience it.