Saturdays At River Farm

The American Horticultural Society is pleased to offer this new program that will feature presentations by experts on a variety of educational topics on the third Saturday of each month at 10:30 a.m. The schedule is as follows:

• July 19 – Join environmental education expert Joe Keyser for a presentation on rainscaping on July 19 at 10:30 a.m. He will discuss water conservation strategies such as rain gardens, which create an opportunity to use native plants in ways - and in places - you may not have considered before. Keyser will also cover other options such as downspout diversion, rain barrels, and cisterns.
   

• August 16 – Richard Koogle, operations manager at Lilypons Water Gardens with 26 years of experience in water gardening, will share insights about the art and logistics of creating a successful water garden.
   

• September 27 - Botanical Art Society National Capital Region (BASNCR) will conduct a botanical painting workshop. Attendees will have the chance to learn basics regarding painting botanical images, learn more about the BASNCR, witness painters in various stages of their work, and try their hand at painting.

Pre-registration is required and tickets are $12 for members or $15 for non-members. Space is limited, please contact Courtney Capstack at (703) 768-5700 x 118 or ccapstack@ahs.org to register.

Mid-Atlantic Plein Air Painters Association Exhibit
Through August 27, 2008

Paintings inspired by natural light and the beauty of nature are on display in the main house at River Farm, the American Horticultural Society’s (AHS) headquarters. This exhibition features works by members of the Mid-Atlantic Plein Air Painters Association (MAPAPA) from Northern Virginia, Chesapeake, Winchester, Annapolis, and the Baltimore area. Paintings can be purchased at River Farm and removed at the time of sale. A portion of the proceeds help support the stewardship of River Farm and the AHS’s educational programs.

Jamie Kirkell Silk Floral Art Exhibit
August 29, 2008 – January 2009

A unique collection of paintings of orchids and irises on silk by artist Jamie Kirkell will be on display in the main house at the American Horticultural Society’s River Farm headquarters. The public is invited to meet the artist at a reception at River Farm on September 3 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Kirkell’s technique and interpretive modes reflect the integration of classical and modern influences, characteristic in contemporary botanical painting. His work has been exhibited across the US, including galleries and botanic gardens in New York, California, Florida, and Ohio. Internationally is works have been exhibited in Israel and Aruba.

AHS Annual Gala
September 20, 2008

The 2008 American Horticultural Society Annual Gala, “Local Harvest, Bountiful Earth” will be a true celebration of the bounty of the earth and American gardens as guests savor the seasonal flavors of the local harvest. Roger Swain, beloved host of “The Victory Garden,” is serving as Honorary Chair for this extraordinary event, which will feature an exciting new format with casual dining, special entertainment, and a vintage couture auction – all created with an earth-friendly flair. For tickets, or if you or your business have talent and resources to contribute to this year’s gala, please contact Sarah Christie at schristie@ahs.org or (703) 678-5700 ext. 114.