Great Lakes Inspired is an informal partnership of Great Lakes artists, managers and advocates seeking to strengthen and promote links between Great Lakes arts and science as a way of inspiring Great Lakes stewardship. We seek to educate the public on the science behind the healing properties of water, particularly the Great Lakes, using art as a vehicle. Our speaker series is now based at the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge.

Join us for our first in-person event on Thursday, July 27 at 7pm as we welcome Alex Gilford and Dorothy McLeer. Our speakers will be sharing about their connection with the Detroit River, which is the heart of the Great Lakes, and their experience with conservation, specifically the history of Humbug Marsh, a wetland that was saved nearly 25 years ago thanks to the efforts of a small group of passionate citizens.

The primary influences in Alex Gilford's life and art are an interest in history and an appreciation for nature. In addition to being an artist, Alex has worked as a Park Ranger and also volunteers with environmental organizations. Doing this type of work provides him with an opportunity to physically care for the environment and use his hands to support its future health. When he paints and draws in these natural spaces, directly from life, he engages in a more intimate way. It is much like a naturalist who quietly examines a subject, interprets what is experienced, and makes subjective and objective notations. By packing-up his easel and painting in parks, preserves, and wildlife refuges, he utilizes them in a minimally invasive way. Through the practice of art as an outdoor activity, it is a goal of Alex's to strengthen the relationship between the arts and the natural and cultural heritage that these places preserve. Alex is currently serving as the Friends of the Detroit River Artist in Residence.

Dorothy McLeer has been the Program Coordinator at the University of Michigan-Dearborn Environmental Interpretive Center for a long time. She and her colleagues, both full-time and student staff, host thousands of area school children, families, and community organizations at the Center and in the 120-acre Environmental Study Area, once Henry and Clara Ford's "backyard." Holding multiple degrees in Environmental Studies, Dorothy also teaches the Environmental Interpretation and Environmental Education courses at the University. Going with the idea that nature is where you find it, Dorothy is passionate about creating an awareness and appreciation of the wonders around us, big and small. She has been involved with the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge from the beginning and volunteers leading programs there whenever possible, sometimes in the guise of "Humbug Marsha..."

You can find more information regarding our first in-person event and access the virtual option here:

http://www.stephanieprechter.com/great-lakes-inspired