West Virginia is celebrating the work of a homegrown artist, Charley Harper, with an interactive exhibit at the Clay Center in Charleston. This is a fitting tribute to an artist who found inspiration in the natural world around him, and it's a great opportunity to introduce a new generation to his unique style. But what makes this exhibit particularly special is the way it brings Harper's art to life, quite literally. The 'I Am Wild' exhibit takes visitors on a journey through Harper's imaginative world, where they can explore different habitats and create their own art. This is a brilliant way to engage children with nature and art, and it's a refreshing change from traditional museum exhibits. Harper's style, which he called 'minimal realism', is characterized by breaking down the natural world into basic shapes. This simplicity is what makes his work so accessible to children, and it's also what makes it so fascinating to adults. Personally, I think Harper's work is a testament to the power of observation and the importance of connecting with nature. What makes this exhibit even more special is the fact that it's coming back to West Virginia, where Harper's inspiration began. This is a wonderful sign that you don't have to leave your roots behind to survive and thrive. The Clay Center is the first stop for this traveling exhibit, and it will be there until the beginning of January. After that, it will travel to other museums across West Virginia, including Beckley and Huntington. This is a great opportunity for people across the state to experience Harper's work and to appreciate the beauty of the natural world through his unique lens. In my opinion, this exhibit is a must-see for anyone interested in art, nature, or the power of observation. It's a refreshing and engaging experience that will leave a lasting impression on visitors of all ages. So, if you're in West Virginia, make sure to check out the 'I Am Wild' exhibit at the Clay Center. It's a wonderful tribute to a homegrown artist and a brilliant way to celebrate the beauty of the natural world.
