If you’re in the Cowichan Valley between Oct. 6th and Nov. 18th, stop by Just Jakes Restaurant at 45 Craig St., in Duncan, to see a nature-themed art show. I will have two paintings there and have donated another for a fundraising auction at the North American Trumpeter Swan Conference. Both events are co-hosted by Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society and Cowichan Valley Naturalists, and conclude with a joint gala on Nov. 18th featuring Canadian wildlife artist, Robert Bateman, as keynote speaker at the Quw’utsun’ Cultural Centre.

The show and conference are part of the 8th annual WildWings Nature and Arts Festival—“six weeks of events, activities, hands-on experiences and outdoor learning adventures in the Cowichan Valley”. Together, they are “to bring attention to the important ecosystems of the Cowichan Valley by celebrating the interconnections between nature, culture and community”.

The opening reception is on Thursday, Oct. 6th, from 6-10 pm at Just Jakes. Come along to see the art, listen to live music and enjoy some light appetizers and stimulating conversations on topics of art and the natural world! Take a moment to discover the more than 30 activities associated with the festival.