Greetings from Our Microbiome! by Shelly Smith
Due to the pandemic, we were not on the streets of Arlington for this activation. It was redesigned as a social media project and virtual artist talk.
The work of Arlington artist Shelly Smith focuses on microscopic life found in water and soil. The artist has illustrated five postcards, featuring the diversity of microorganisms found in five different bodies of water in Arlington, including a bog, vernal pool, and stream. Come examine the living creatures through a microscope, paint the postcards yourself, and then mail them to friends.
Water run-off from our yards and streets not only affects the health of our waterways but it also impacts the larger ecosystem, including trees and plants. The Office of Sustainability and Environmental Management is our community partner, and the postcards share how we can be better stewards of the natural environment by reducing stormwater runoff and pollution at home.
About Shelly Smith
Virtual Art Activation
Tuesday, July 7th – Thursday, August 11th
Explore Arlington’s waterways with Ballston neighborhood artist Shelly Smith. Check the Arlington Art Truck Instagram or Arlington Arts’ Instagram, Facebook or Twitter account July 7 – August 11 to sign up for free postcard packs we will mail to you. The pack will have a mix of color and black and white postcards of which you can color-in yourself and mail to your friends! Choose English or Spanish or a combination.
Virtual Artist Talk
Tuesday, July 28th, 6:30-7:30 P.M.
Join us for the Greetings from Our Microbiome virtual artist presentation. The presentation will take place via Zoom and include a short Q&A. Sign up for the presentation here and we will email you a link and passcode a few days prior to the talk.
Science Sketch Along @ the Virtual Arlington County Fair on Facebook Live (pre-recorded)
Saturday, August 15th, 10 A.M.
Bring your favorite art supplies and join Arlington Art Truck program artist Shelly Smith for a fun drawing session featuring Arlington’s amazing microorganisms. We’ll sketch from images taken with Shelly’s microscope as we learn more about her summer project, Greetings from Our Microbiome, including how to protect our waterways and engage in citizen science. Go to the Arlington Art Truck Instagram or Arlington Arts’ Instagram, Facebook or Twitter for more information. View the video below!
FREE “TAKE AND MAKE” PICK UP LOCATION:
Wednesday, August 5, 9-11:30 A.M., Our Lady Queen of Peace Food Pantry pick up, 2700 19th St South
Science Sketch Along