The Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens is proud to unveil its new LongHouse Community Art Gallery, an exciting addition that merges the beauty of the natural world with the creativity of fine art.
The gallery opened in the LongHouse Visitor Center on Tuesday, March 4 with the debut exhibit “Florals,” showcasing the watercolor masterpieces of the late artist, J.R. “Jim” Hamil.
Hamil is one of the Midwest’s most beloved regional artists. His watercolors bring familiar landscapes and floral scenes to life, and this special exhibit will feature rarely seen original works and vibrant prints. Hamil’s artwork continues to resonate with viewers, evoking a sense of warmth and charm that fits perfectly within the Arboretum’s beauty.
The exhibit will run through April 30, and prints of Hamil’s work will be for sale in the Arboretum gift shop.
“The Arboretum is the perfect setting for rotating art exhibits,” says Katharine Garrison, Education Coordinator. “Much like our gardens, woodlands, prairie and ponds, the art in the gallery provides a unique space to inspire reflection, creativity and a connection to the world around us.
“The next exhibit will feature a community nature photography contest, where all photo submissions must be taken here at the Arboretum. We can’t wait to see our gardens and ecosystems through the lenses of local photographers!”
To celebrate the opening of the LongHouse Community Art Gallery, the public is invited to a free Opening Reception on March 8 from 4 to 6 p.m. in LongHouse Visitor Center at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, 8909 W. 179th St., Overland Park.
At the reception, Alex Hamil, the artist’s son, will be available to speak about his father’s remarkable career and artistic legacy. Guests can enjoy refreshments while exploring the gallery and experiencing the art on display.
The reception will be held in conjunction with Night at the Arboretum, which takes place March 8 from 5 to 9 p.m. Night at the Arboretum offers an opportunity for visitors to experience the Arboretum after hours, including stargazing with the Kansas City Astronomical Society, wildlife encounters with Operation Wildlife and family-friendly activities. To participate, regular Arboretum admission applies.
The LongHouse Community Art Gallery at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission to the gallery is free. For more information, visit www.opkansas.org/Arboretum.