Bye, Bye, Birdie Exhibit

The Washington Arts Association and Gallery in Washington, CT is pleased to present Bye, Bye, Birdie: an exhibition curated by Karen Simmons and Hugh O’Donnell. The exhibition, on view from April 24 thru June 6, will illuminate the vulnerable beauty of America’s birds, and is timed to coincide with the annual return of these beloved migratory creatures.

Bird populations have shrunk by over three billion since 1970, a decrease of over 30% in 50 years. This decline affects all birds, not just those that are considered endangered. The causes are widespread, including climate change, deforestation, agricultural pesticides, and the encroachment of human development on nesting and migratory space.

Birds are delicate and frail but also capable of feats of great endurance in their migratory journeys. They are literally “the canary in the coal mine” to make us aware of the damage we are inflicting on our environment. The artists in this show will all express, in ways greater than words, the wonder that birds evoke and the importance of their survival.

 The Washington Art Association is also planning several accompanying workshops, lectures, and bird-oriented activities for families. We especially thank Southbury Audubon and the Hotchkiss school for their generous loan of their Audubon prints.

Participating artists:

John Jay Audubon

Xavi Bou

Leila Daw

Elizabeth Macdonald

Malcolm Moran

Banjie Nicholas

Tim Prentice

Jon Riedeman

Hagar Fletcher