“My main intention is to bring people closer to the world in whatever context they themselves find personal meaning.” –Rick Beaver
Today, Rick Beaver, Ojibway artist, biologist, and elder from Alderville First Nation, speaks to NFOTA’s Felicity Sidnell Reid and Chris Cameron about the importance of the Alderville Black Oak Savanna, his 1999 discovery of rare species, and his inspiration as a visual artist.
In this series we feature interviews and discussions with Individual Artists, Leaders of Arts Groups and Organizations, Civic Leaders, and Arts Lovers in our county.
“I’m particularly fortunate in that I can see inspiration in the most insignificant places.”–Rick Beaver
“Integrating people more with their environment in all of its aspects is a good thing to do. Healthy communities are based in healthy environments.”–Rick Beaver
“When people are able to enjoy [the Savanna] without those [pandemic] restrictions, the full extent of what the Savanna has to offer them, and they to it, will return. That will be a welcome day.”–Rick Beaver
Thanks for this fascinating interview, Rick! I remember the tour you led of the Black Oak Savanna a few years ago. It’s such a beautiful place and I learned so much from you about the healing plants that grow there.
Kim, your experience of the Alderville Savanna mirrors mine…an encounter with the lessons of place.
And your art work is beautiful!
Thank you Kim. Please come again for a visit.
Thanks, Rick. I can’t wait to visit the Savanna again!