Art From Connecticut Forests: A Special Exhibition At Kellogg Environmental Center

DERBY — “Art from Connecticut Forests” has opened at Kellogg Environmental Center.

The unique display of art was created from a single white oak tree to illustrate the diversity of products provided by this natural resource. The exhibition, sponsored by Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Connecticut Forest and Park Association and Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism, will remain on view through December 30.

The center is at 500 Hawthorne Avenue (immediately off Route 34; signs are posted) and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 am to 4:30 pm. There is no admission costs; donations are greatly appreciated.

The exhibition was designed as part of the Centennial Celebration of Forestry to bring awareness to the diversity of artwork and environmental benefits forests provide. There are 150,000 acres of state forest land open to the public for recreation, education and enjoyment. These forests also supply lumber, provide watershed protection, wildlife habitat and climate control, and help improve air quality.

Forest management began in Connecticut in 1903 with the establishment of the first state forest in Portland (Conn.). It came at a time when forest health was declining due to human and natural impacts. At one time Connecticut forests declined to 20 percent coverage in the state; today 60 percent of Connecticut is forested. The exhibition showcases our connection to this resource not only in our past but also in the present.

“Art from Connecticut Forests” has been traveling throughout the state. Future exhibitions include Greenwich Audubon Center and The Silo at Hunt Hill Farm, New Milford.

For complete details and dates of the exhibition, related special programs and more about the project call the environmental center, 734-2513.