Inspiring more than a sense of adventure and fun, the Everglades is also inspiring Miami artists with its unique wildlife and serene nature. Some were so inspired that they created an organization of artists to help intrigue, educate, and inspire visitors, known as Artists in Residence in Everglades (AIRIE). AIRIE was born in 2001 when the U.S. Congress passed the $8 billion Everglades restoration bill. An environmentally conscious painter by the name of Donna Marxer wanted to inspire artists and writers to become advocates for Florida’s compelling River of Grass.
Paintings, photographs, written works, and even musical scores have all been inspired by artists working under the AIRIE program. Professional artists are granted residency in the Park for a month for uninterrupted creation. During their stay, artists are treated as VIPs, or Volunteers In the Park, where they host exhibitions, workshops, and educational lectures. Once their stay is complete, artists donate one of their Everglades-inspired pieces to be added to the Park collection--composers and writers usually offer publication rights to the Park for their work.
Now, there are over 90 AIRIE Fellows who’ve produced works based on their Everglades adventure. AIRIE Fellows include photographer and writer Susan Silas, creative writer Brenna Dixon, architect Elite Kedan, painter Rodney Dickson, and many more. Artists are inspired by the native wildlife, the peaceful atmosphere of one of our nation's most endangered habitats, and the seemingly uncivilized nature of the environment--devoid of light, roads, and inorganic corruption.
On your next Everglades airboat tour, look around--I mean, really look. Let the Everglades inspire you in any way, shape, or form that it can. The goal of a program such as AIRIE is to gain interest and support for present and future generations. These artists allow the Everglades National Park’s visitors to see the Everglades to their eyes, so they can appreciate it in a whole new way.
If you’re interested in taking an inspiring and educational airboat tour through the Everglades, visit Wild Florida today. If you’re an aspiring artist, share this post. Consider visiting an amazing location, like the Everglades, to inspire your creativity. Also, share some other Florida environments, places, or creatures that inspire you in whatever craft you’re passionate about.
