The beautiful landscapes and wildflowers of The Ridges Sanctuary have inspired scientists, writers and artists for well over 100 years. Reading the Ridges an art exhibit featuring original work inspired by The Ridges will be on display at the Door Community Auditorium’s Link Gallery in Fish Creek from March 1st to April 12th, 2010.

This is the first showing of work inspired by The Ridges Sanctuary in Baileys Harbor and its property on Logan Creek near Jacksonport. The exhibit will include photographs, watercolors, oils, and pastels, as well as dimensional works in wood, glass, metal, and clay in a wide variety of styles and personal expressions.

Fifty Door county artists have created works reflecting the pristine beauty and ecological character of The Ridges Sanctuary, Wisconsin’s oldest membership based nature sanctuary and the most biologically diverse area in the state. Ancient shorelines of Lake Michigan form the ridges and swales creating a unique environment abundant with wildflowers such as lady’s-slippers and fringed gentians, as well as pristine forests and wetlands. The Ridges Sanctuary is home to the Federally endangered Hine’s Emerald dragonfly and has been a place of inspiration and reflection for more than 73 years.

Reading the Ridges is sponsored by Espresso Lane, Ecology Sports, Hide Side Corner Store, Main Street Market and the Homestead Suites.

The public is invited to an opening reception for the artists at the Auditorium Sunday, February 28th, from 1 to 3 PM. The exhibit will remain open through April 12. Link Gallery hours are 10:00 AM to 2 PM.

The Ridges Sanctuary is Wisconsin’s oldest nonprofit nature preserve, established in 1937. Trails at the Sanctuary are open to the public year-round for hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. A small trail fee is charged. The Sanctuary is located just north of Baileys Harbor, on County Road Q (a quarter mile east of Highway 57). For more information on any of The Ridges’ programs, call (920)839-2802, or visit the Sanctuary’s website at www.RidgesSanctuary.org.

Contact: Carol Schuster
(920) 839-2802
carol@RidgesSanctuary.org