It is a comfort to know that the wonders of nature can bring people together even in the face of some of the darkest realities of our world. It can heal, expand our minds, and create much needed community.

On Friday April 8th, FMSA hosted its first Art Showcase called Beauty in Natural History and Science with the goal of building a space for the appreciation of the creativity and innovation in our scientific community. Twenty artists from 6 different departments displayed a variety of their marvelous creations. Art admirers had the chance to wander between tables viewing (and purchasing!) anything from illustrations, paintings, and photos, to sculptures, stickers, pottery, crochet, poetry, and jewelry.
A secondary theme to the event might have been astonishment at the extraordinary skills exhibited. Or perhaps a much-needed breath of fresh air after/during years of anxiety from a variety of sources. It seemed natural and not-so-scary to be standing outside in the sun, listening to someone usually seen over zoom calls discussing scientific processes instead showing their love of nature through their favorite mediums. With the excellent turnout and many attendees and artists asking when the next art event will be, FMSA is planning for this to become an annual event in the future (if not more frequent).

Thank you to Stephanie Wheeler and Liz Hurtado for coordinating logistics and setting up the event as FMSA club committee co-chairs, to all of the artists who shared their creativity, and to fellow FMSA members, friends, and staff for helping set up and break down the event!

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