A Studio in the Woods announced the return of its annual event, the 14th Annual FORESTival: A Celebration of Art & Nature, taking place on Saturday, November 16, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. This unique, family-friendly festival will unfold within the enchanting bottomland hardwood forest of A Studio in the Woods, offering a day filled with art, nature and community.
“FORESTival is one of our favorite events because we get to share the magic of the woods with our surrounding communities,” said Managing Director Ama Rogan. “It’s the one time of the year we throw open our doors for everyone to enjoy a family-friendly festival that celebrates our local creative community in truly unique ways while festival-goers immerse themselves in the beauty of nature right in their backyard.”
This year’s FORESTival promises a rich array of activities and experiences for all ages, including:
- Live Music Performances: Groove to the sounds of local favorites, including Waterseed, Baba Luther and the Congo Square Drummers, and former residents Kr3wical and Kelly Love Jones.
- Artist Presentations: Experience creative works and discussions from residents and guest artists such as Akilah Toney and paris cyan cian.
- Environmental Justice Hub: Engage with frontline and fence-line organizations through creative presentations highlighting efforts in environmental justice.
- Local Cuisine: Savor delicious offerings from local vendors like Crescent City Burgers, Big O’s Pops, and Eli’s Kitchen.
- Art & Science Activities: Enjoy interactive fun for both kids and adults, including the popular Build a Clay Forest activity, a woodland scavenger hunt led by former resident John Lacarbiere III, a meet-and-greet with Weezy the mini Scottish Highlander Cow from Sugar Roots Farm, and STEM activities with STEM NOLA.
- Walks in the Woods: Take guided walks through the forest with experts from Tulane University and local scientists, exploring the natural beauty and ecological significance of the area.
- Silent Auction: Bid on unique art objects and experiences, with all proceeds supporting A Studio in the Woods’ programming.
Musical performer and former resident Kr3wical reflected on the importance of the festival: “As artists, we often get into a habit of constantly creating and working outside of space and time. My time at A Studio in the Woods was one of the most replenishing and restorative experiences of my journey as an artist. The ability to connect and draw inspiration from the serenity of nature is a moment I’ll always cherish, and I’d love to see other artists be able to experience it.”
FORESTival is a rare opportunity to explore A Studio in the Woods, as it is the only time of the year the site is open to the public. Established in 2001, A Studio in the Woods occupies eight forested acres on the Mississippi River in Lower Coast Algiers, New Orleans. As a program of Tulane University’s ByWater Institute, it is dedicated to science-inspired art engagement, forest preservation, and providing a retreat for artists and scholars addressing the pressing issues of our time with creativity and imagination.
Suggested donations are $15 per adult, with free admission for children. All proceeds support the organization’s programming.
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, November 16, 2024
- Time: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Location: A Studio in the Woods, 13401 Patterson Road, New Orleans, LA, 70131
For more information, tickets, and volunteer opportunities, visit astudiointhewoods.org/programs/forestival.
