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Mark your calendars for Art in the Park and National Junior Ranger Day, the annual special event at George Washington Carver National Monument, held on Saturday, April 27, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Celebrating National Park Week, Art in the Park/National Junior Ranger Day is a free event showcasing the artwork of George Washington Carver.
George Washington Carver was inspired by the natural environment and gained a sense of serenity and personal rejuvenation from his artistic work. Plein air artists will set up along the trail, capturing the beauty of the woodlands, prairie, and streams. Artists will conduct art workshops throughout the day and visitors are encouraged to participate. A “budding artists” area will feature natural dyes, rock painting, flower prints, and other art activities for children.
At 11:00 a.m., featured artist/guest speaker Alexander Austin (Alexander Austin Studios) will give an artist talk. Austin, a nationally known Kansas City, Missouri artist, has painted public murals and private commissions for many years across the United States. In 2022, Austin was commissioned to paint Joplin, Missouri’s Downtown Black History and Performing Arts Mural. The mural honors African American artists who were born in Joplin or performed in the community, including Harlem Renaissance poet, Langton Hughes.
At 12:00 p.m., a park ranger will share the program, “Casting A Legacy-An Outdoor Art Walk,” exploring commemorative artwork along the Carver trail. Throughout the event, the “Expressions of the Soul” exhibit will display images of George Washington Carver’s art.
No matter your age, you are invited to explore, learn, and protect on National Junior Ranger Day. Earn a special Art in the Park Junior Ranger badge! Become a park explorer, sound explorer, or a George Washington Carver explorer.
Administered by the National Park Service, George Washington Carver National Monument preserves the birthplace and childhood home of George Washington Carver – scientist, educator, and humanitarian. The park is located two miles west of Diamond, Missouri on Highway V, then ¼ mile south on Carver Road. For more information, please call the park at 417-325-4151 between 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., visit the park website at www.nps.gov/gwca, or visit the park Facebook page.
