A Studio in the Woods will host the 11th annual FORESTival: A Celebration of Art and Nature on Saturday, November 13, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Set in a lush bottomland hardwood forest in the English Turn area of Algiers,  the FORESTival will offer fun activities for all ages and feels a world away while still being within the city limits. This year, the festival celebrates the 2oth anniversary of A Studio in the Woods, which has supported more than 200 artists and scholars in its first two decades.

A Studio in the Woods, located in 7.66 forested acres on the Mississippi River in New Orleans, is dedicated to forest preservation, science-inspired art engagement and providing a peaceful retreat for artists and scholars who are tackling the challenging issues of our time with power and imagination. A program of Tulane University’s ByWater Institute, A Studio in the Woods focuses on interrelated areas of programming including artistic and scholarly residencies, forest restoration, and science-inspired art education for children and adults.

Music will be performed by kei slaughter, Dr. Michael White & Sidiki Conde, and The Soul Rebels. Resident and guest artists will present their art, including Brandon Ballengée, ChE, Jeffery Darensbourg, Jane Hill, Andy Horowitz, MILAGROS, Monique Moss, Ripple Effect and Titos Sompa. Scientists from Tulane University will lead guided nature walks, and hands-on art activities will include building a forest out of clay. A silent auction will feature one-of-a-kind objects and experiences.

“We are thrilled to welcome our community back to the Woods after a year and a half apart,” said Managing Director Ama Rogan. “Time in nature, time together, and time spent engaging with art and music are what our souls need right now. We are excited to provide that in a spacious, safe and beautiful outdoor setting.”

FORESTival is the only time during the year that A Studio in the Woods is open to the public at large. A suggested donation is $15 per adult, while kids are admitted free. All proceeds support the programming of A Studio in the Woods. Located on the west bank in Lower Algiers at 13401 Patterson Road, the site is about a 25-minute drive from downtown New Orleans.

Proof of vaccination or negative PCR test within 72 hours will be required for those 12 and up to enter. Masks encouraged. To learn more and pre-register attendance, visit  astudiointhewoods.org.