Lander has always had wildlife trapsing through town. This fall, I watched a large Muley Buck use the crosswalk to cross Main Street. The winter before, a Mama Moose and her baby camped out alongside neighborhoods in town. Those that live here make room for them, often warning others on social media of last sightings. Certainly, we don’t want anyone to happen upon a mad mama moose unexpectedly.
But Lander is about to become even wilder. Potters of the Wind River, also known as POWR, is a group of local potters here in the Wind River area. These artists are working together to create a large public work of art to convey the importance of appreciating and conserving the Riparian habitat of the Popo Agie River that flows through the heart of Wyoming. There will be seven ceramic art tile panels created by POWR artists. Each artist will share their unique vision of the Popo Agie wildlife and plants. This project is possible with the support of the LOR Foundation, Water for Wildlife, Popo Agie Conservation District, and the Lander Community Foundation, installation is Spring of 2025.
Crafting a large ceramic tile panel that showcases the different species is a challenge.
As a long time ceramic tile artist, I weave the message of appreciation and conservation among my tile and pottery designs. This project is a natural fit. I am beyond excited to be a part of this incredible opportunity. Crafting a large ceramic tile panel that showcases the different species that are important to the Popo Agie Riparian ecosystem, encapsulating the intricate details of their habitats, is a challenge. Each element has to tell a story. Being relatively new to the area, I need to spend time learning about the Popo Agie Riparian habitat. And not only what inhabits the area, but how each organism contributes to the ecosystem.
Many animal species that are familiar call this habitat home, moose, Mule Deer, Coyote, Owls, Fox to name a few. With the panel that I have in mind, I would like to highlight the lesser-known animals that also contribute to the place. Have you heard of a bushy tailed wood rat, or a tiger salamander, a Northern Saw-Whet? Many more animals will be placed among the flowing river landscape.
Photo Credit: Laura Norman
My hope is that this work will foster a connection between art and nature.
Once I gather all the necessary knowledge about these remarkable creatures, have the opportunity to visit their habitat, and gain an understanding of the significance of this ecosystem to our community, I can start work on the design. Of all of the things that I have done in my artistic career, this project will be the highlight and one that is very important to me. I see it as an opportunity to become more familiar with my new home. It is an opportunity to give back to the community that readily opened their arms and welcomed me. It’s also a chance to share the message that we are responsible for protecting these beautiful spaces and the wildlife that depend on them.
My hope is that this work will foster a connection between art and nature. May this mural not only be a beautiful addition to the community but also inspire a movement toward conservation that will resonate for generations to come.
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Stay Wild!
~Dana