Renowned artists Ella Cart, Bettina Dickson Rusher, and Ken Wallin have curated an immersive exhibition entitled “Animals and Us,” which will open on May 1 at Glynn Visual Arts on St. Simons Island. Celebrating the profound connection between humanity and wildlife, the exhibition offers visitors an unforgettable exploration of our shared bond with the natural world. A captivating mix of artistic mediums will be featured alongside live animal ambassadors, chaperoned by the Jekyll Island Conservation Authority. Through this innovative blend of art and nature, the show creates a dynamic environment designed to both engage and inform visitors of all ages.
"Animals and Us" promises to be a cultural highlight of the season, featuring a variety of engaging activities. Guests can enjoy live artist demonstrations, gain valuable insights during a special presentation by Coastal WildScapes, and participate in interactive games designed to entertain and educate the entire family. Come celebrate the beauty of our community and the wonders of our landscape. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a memorable family outing, "Animals and Us" offers something truly special for everyone.
The Opening Reception for the exhibit will be held at Glynn Visual Arts on Thursday, May 1, from 4:30-7:00 p.m. One Hundred Miles will be there with information for the public about our coast and their mission. Prior to the opening, on Wednesday, April 30 at 6:30 p.m., Ken Wallin will present a special live painting demonstration. He will explore how art can serve as a powerful medium to highlight the bond between nature and the human spirit. On Saturday, May 3, join Coastal WildScapes for an engaging lecture and demonstration focused on the critical importance of coastal Georgia's habitats. Learn practical tips on attracting pollinators to your garden while supporting ecological balance. On May 17, from 3:00-5:00 p.m., Jekyll Island Authority will discuss the importance of natural preditors in "Beasts of Prey -- Understanding the misunderstood wildlife on the Georgia Coast."
Ken Wallin
Creative aspirations and a love affair of wildlife has led artist Ken Wallin to experiences of a full-time fine artist, based in his studio/Gallery on St. Simons Island. With a PhD in psychology and over 30 years of study and training in the fine arts, Ken has created a series of paintings that strive to help humans connect with animals and nature. His recent pieces are titled “Finding Your Animal Spirit.” This series of paintings reflect the characteristics of the animals, how they survive and function in their habitat. Humans often identify with these behaviors and accept them in their own lives—thereby embracing the “Animal Spirit.” Emotionality, storytelling and personal attachment to the painting are the unique signatures of his work.
Bettina Dickson Rusher
Bettina Dickson Rusher has BA in Art and Design from Eastern Kentucky University and continued her education at the San Francisco Art Institute. She has been painting and practicing photography since 1990. Bettina is the founder and Director of a new organization called CAAGA, the Contemporary Art Alliance of Georgia. She also founded Memorable Pets in 2010 a micro company helping those with dementia by providing comfort therapy tools. Bettina’s passion for vulnerable and endangered species stems from an understanding that they are not just individual creatures but integral parts of our planet's delicate ecological balance. Beyond their ecological importance, she recognizes a connection between endangered species and vulnerable people. Both face external threats beyond their control—exploitation, and forces that strip them of security. Through her wildlife paintings, Bettina hopes to capture and convey this vulnerability. She uses light, shadow, and expression to evoke emotion, compelling viewers to see beyond the surface and recognize their shared responsibility in protecting these species. Bettina’s work is not just about beauty—it is a call to action, an invitation for others to care, understand, and fight for those who need protection the most.
Ella Cart
Ever since she was a child, Ella Cart has had a desire to create and a fascination with color and texture. With a degree in Fine Art, Ella excels in showcasing her deep love for nature while constantly exploring new forms of expression. Originally from South Carolina, Ella now draws inspiration from the distinct colors and landscapes of her homes in both St. Simons Island, Georgia, and Saluda, North Carolina. Primarily focused on wildlife and natural scenes, Ella's body of work expands to incorporate a diverse range of mediums, producing vibrant works that blend traditional landscape painting with bold abstractions. Her work has received numerous awards, solidifying her reputation within the art community. She helped establish ArtTrends Gallery, where her pieces are featured and regularly exhibits at the Purple Onion. She is also an active member of the Georgia Coastal Artist Guild. Through her art, Ella urges viewers to join her in appreciating nature's beauty and the transformative power of creativity. Each piece reflects her belief in embracing change and discovering wonder in the world around us.
“Animals and Us” will be on display at Glynn Visual Arts through June 6, be sure to catch it while it’s there!
