Ouabache Land Conservancy (OLC) cordially invites all art and nature lovers to an evening of art appreciation and learning about Parke County’s Intimate Landscapes.  This free program will feature a presentation by Jim Nardi, University of Illinois Research Scientist, about how growing up on Parke County’s unique Atherton Island land formation was his inspiration for illustrating and writing his children’s book, In Mouse’s Backyard.  Nardi (Purdue U., Harvard U., Clinton High School, Clinton Boy Scout Troop 63, and Parke County 4-H Alumni) is also the author (and illustrator) of Life in the Soil: A Guide for Naturalists and Gardeners and Discoveries in the Garden.  In addition, Nardi has an upcoming book (February 2023), The Hidden Company that Trees Keep: Life from Treetops to Root Tips.  Nardi will share his experiences with nature, on what is now Atherton Island Natural Area (one of the nature preserves that OLC has stewardship over), and why protecting these wild places is so important.  The story will be told with the help of its tiny native inhabitants as showcased In Mouse’s Backyard.  This is not an ordinary children’s book, as adults can learn to look for amazing natural elements out our backdoor by reading it too!

This event is a fundraiser to help OLC, a 501(c)3 non-profit land trust serving west-central Indiana, provide public access to Atherton Island Natural Area.  OLC memberships, color and black & white prints, and books will be available for purchase. Dr. Nardi will be available to sign prints and books afterward.  Parke County’s Intimate Landscapes is being hosted by the Covered Bridge Art Gallery, 124 W Ohio St. (north side of the square), Rockville at 7:00 pm on Thursday, August 25th in the upstairs meeting room.  The art gallery will have extended hours before and after this event.  This is a family-friendly program and no reservations are required.  Light refreshments will be provided.  For more information, to donate and/or join please visit:  www.ouabachelandconservancy.org, follow OLC on Facebook, or email ouabachelandconservancy@gmail.com .