Squam as a Muse: Exploration of Access, Ecology & Art

Do you enjoy art and nature? Join Lakes Region Conservation Corps (LRCC) member, Connor Piechota, on Saturday, February 10th from 2pm to 5pm for an adventure out to one of the Squam Lakes Association’s maintained campsites to sketch the beautiful scenery within the Squam Lakes watershed. Participants will meet at the West Lot of Chamberlain Reynolds Memorial Forest and begin exploring the trails in the area, making careful observations of the natural world to establish a unique connection. We will examine the various resources that the Squam Lakes watershed provides to the public and what it means to us as recreational users of the area. Establish a reflecting point at the Heron Cove campsite, about a mile’s walk from the parking lot, where will build a fire and heat some hot cocoa. Soak in the beauty of the open lake, islands, and mountains on the horizon, building inspiration for our scenic drawings. Throughout the program, participants will contemplate the working parts of an ecosystem and how every organism plays a role. Reflect upon the conservation efforts that are necessary to maintain such a peaceful environment and appreciate how these actions allow us to enjoy the lakes, mountain, trails, and other components of the Squam watershed.Taking time out of your day to really see your surroundings is important to truly understanding and staying connected with the natural world. This program provides a special opportunity to the public, with the added bonus of sketching portions of the environment that we find particularly appealing. While we sketch, participants have the space to openly converse about their favorite aspects of the Squam watershed, and appreciation of access to the area. By the end of the program, participants will have a piece of art to commemorate their day out on Squam Lake, and have a better understanding of what kinds of conservation efforts go into maintaining healthy ecosystems within the watershed. Interested participants are encouraged to bring microspikes or snowshoes, sketch paper and pencils, colored pencils, or watercolors, travel mugs, thin gloves, a seat cushion, and extra layers.