Opening Friday, February 1 and continuing through Sunday, April 20, 2008, the Arboretum will host a silk painting exhibit by botanical artist Jamie Kirkell. Titled “Orchids and Iris in the Garden,” the exhibit presents Kirkell’s large silk floral paintings and wall tapestries. Original paintings will be available for purchase. Kirkell is hosting an artist's reception Sunday, February 2, from 2 to 4 p.m. in the Education Center. This event is free to the public and does not require registration.

Working from photography and live plants, Kirkell’s work embodies the spirit of botanical art, showing the complete and accurate depiction of flower, leaf and stem. His technique and interpretive modes reflect the integration of classical and modern influences, characteristic in contemporary botanical painting.

Inspired by worldwide influences, Kirkell brings a freshness and lightness to the exploration of both the orchid and the iris. His paintings, incorporating what he calls both “bold and mysterious colors,” are a direct result of time spent in Java Indonesia where he studied batik and textile design under Master Batik Artist, Bambang Oetoro at the Batik Research Institute of Indonesia. While in the Peace Corps, he spent time in the Philippines and Southeast Asia furthering his interest in orchid collecting and floral design.

Kirkell’s studies have also taken him to Ohio State University and The Art Students League in New York. He has exhibited work across the US, including galleries and botanic gardens in New York City, San Diego, Miami, and Cleveland. Internationally, his works have been exhibited in Israel and Aruba. Kirkell’s pieces are also in the collections at the Chrysler Building in New York, the Aish Hatorah Library in Jerusalem, Devi Sri Hotels in Aruba and the Turnberry Isla Resort in Miami.

Kirkell is also hosting a two-day, hands on workshop on silk painting techniques February 3 and 4. Class size is limited; call the Arboretum at 828-665-2492, x317 for more information. Program fee: $128/Arboretum members, $150/Public.