CELEBRATING THE ARTS
The pleasure found in birding lies in the simple joy of connecting with nature through the world of birds, offering simultaneously sensory engagement, intellectual stimulation and a sense of wonder-- allowing one to find peace and an appreciation for our natural environment, beyond the simple observation of avian life.
These experiences are particularly enjoyable during our spring and fall migrations. According to audubon.org, Texas is the southern gateway to North America’s Central Flyway, a corridor that leads from the Texas Gulf Coast through the heart of the U.S. continent and up as far as the Canadian tundra.
More than 330 species, roughly 98.5 percent of North America’s long distance migratory birds, pass through Texas.
With a vast array of colors, patterns and flitting behaviors, birding is a feast for the eyes and captures one’s attention.
From the striking plumage of the Painted Buntings, the sing-song announcement of the Scott’s Orioles that “grape jelly and oranges are here,” to the cheerful reunion chatter of the Cave and Barn Swallows, from the melancholy song of the Canyon Wren and the “fencing-like” competition of the Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds getting their last full drink from the nectar feeders, all can be deeply felt and appreciated by dedicated birders.
The joy of birding is not just about observing birds, it is about experiencing the beauty and complexity of nature through an intimate connection with these feathered creatures.
Fortunately, as they move on from our Texas Hill Country, we have wonderful heartfelt observations created by local artists to remind us of those happy months of migration.
At the corner of Main Street and Rosewood Avenue you can witness an artistic migration of sorts that hopefully will invoke the thrill of birding — Gallery 195 offers the photography of James Heupel; the pen and ink, acrylic of Tim McMeans; and the amazing mixed media, acrylic, paper and sometimes pastel of Riki Yarbrough.
Carriage House Gallery features the ceramic totems of Martha Sherman and the fiber creations of Susan Baker Logrbrinck.
Artist of the Month: Morgan Hampton
Morgan Hampton’s college education in architectural engineering and industrial design led, after graduation from Texas Tech University in 1962, to a professional career in contracting with the Department of Defense for weapon system technology and logistics support.
Various assignments throughout his working career took him from Texas to New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, California and ultimately San Antonio, where he participated in the closure and redevelopment of Kelly Air Force Base. He retired from his professional career in 2002.
During his numerous assignments he experienced the scenic beauty of the southwest U.S. that inspired his interest in art. While on assignment to Fort Huachuca, Arizona, he became an active member of the Huachuca Art Association as its president in 1972-73.
During this period, he started developing his drawing and painting style. His subject matter centers around ranch life, Cowboys and southwest scenery.
In the last few years, Hampton has exhibited his work at The Lodge, Cloudcroft, New Mexico; The Art Gallery, Wimberley, Texas; Rainbird Gallery, Blanco, Texas; Yellow Rose Gallery, Rockport, Texas; Texas Treasures Gallery, Boerne; and Helotes Gallery, Helotes, Texas. He currently serves on the Hill Country Council for the Arts’ board of directors.
You can view Hampton’s artwork at banks on Main Street in Boerne, and The (Kronkosky) Center for the remainder of the month.
New Concert Location
The Boerne Concert Band, directed by Larry Schmidt, presents “Something for Everyone,” a free concert on Sunday, Oct. 6, in the Boerne Middle School North auditorium, at 240 Johns Road in Boerne.
The Jazz Band will perform jazz selections at 6:30 p.m., followed by the Concert Band performing music from around the globe at 7 p.m.
Both bands are made up of musical members from all over Texas Hill Country and from all walks of life, including middle, high school and college students, lifetime musicians, military veterans and band directors.
Find the Boerne Concert Band on Facebook, @BoerneConcert-Band, and their website: www. boerneconcertband.com.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and visit our website often: www.hccarts.org. Send inquiries to: [email protected].
Hill Country Council for the Arts develops and enriches an environment that supports and promotes awareness, appreciation, education and access to all the arts.
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