Natural Art Projects Aid Restoration in Carson Valley
As The Nature Conservancy in Nevada celebrates its 30th anniversary, it is partnering with the Nevada Museum of Art’s Center for Art + Environment and environmental artists Daniel McCormick and Mary O’Brien on an interesting new project. On May 9, the San Francisco-based artists will create and install large sculptures made from native vegetation that will blend with restoration efforts at the River Fork Ranch Preserve in the Carson Valley and the McCarran Ranch Preserve on the Truckee River near Reno.
“In the West, Nevada’s tradition of earth art will now include environmental works designed to give advantage to natural systems,” says Daniel McCormick. “We consider the collaboration an ingredient of our art process, and we’re pleased to become a part of the community in this way,” says Mary O’Brien. The sculptures will help direct water when it floods and stabilize riparian areas in the Carson and Truckee River systems.
The Center for Art + Environment at the Nevada Museum of Art in Reno will showcase the “nature of art” project during a four-month exhibition slated to open in late December. Additionally, the artist’s work will be archived.
Bill Fox, Director of the Center, says “Art that walks in the world’ is a phrase we use to describe interventions by artists that seek to address real-world problems. The work that Daniel and Mary do is unique, but also part of a worldwide movement that uses art to address environmental remediation.”
“These innovative projects offer an opportunity for local school children and corporations to get involved through volunteer events during the installments,” says Duane Petite, the Conservancy’s Carson River project director. “Their collaborative efforts will add beauty to the area while supporting wildlife and improving water quality.”
Corporate volunteer events have been scheduled at the Conservancy’s River Fork Ranch Preserve in the Carson Valley with Starbucks, Carson Valley Roasting Plant & Distribution Center, Harrah’s Lake Tahoe and Reno, Harvey’s Lake Tahoe, Harley-Davidson Financial Services, GE Measurement and Control, as well as with local schools and other groups.
Community members are encouraged to come out to the preserve to witness the creation of these beautiful habitat and restoration sculptures. The project is seen from the preserve’s East Brockliss Loop Trail. Visitors can also go hiking, trail running, horseback riding and bird watching. You can also make an appointment to tour the interpretive center by emailing [email protected].