In June 2020, artist Kristin Leachman traveled to an old-growth longleaf pine forest in southwest Georgia. An old-growth forest is one with trees that are more than 120 years old. Longleaf forests are one of the most biologically rich ecosystems in the world. They used to cover a large area across the southern U.S. but people used the tree for ship masts, railroad ties and turpentine farming. They also cleared land
for buildings.
The exhibition “Kristin Leachman: Longleaf Lines” is part two of Leachman’s “Fifty Forests” project. She aims to paint important forests in 50 states. Leachman wants to bring attention to our forest ecosystems, climate change and the importance of protecting the environment.
Leachman’s paintings give us a close-up view of longleaf bark. Can you imagine walking through a forest and seeing this bark all around you?
Trees are an important part of healthy ecosystems. They are also an important part of our shared histories. Next time you see a tree, take a closer look at its bark. What do you think the trees around us have experienced in their life?
Kristin Leachman (American, b. 1966), “Longleaf 2,” 2021. Oil on canvas on panel, 54 × 72 inches. Courtesy of Kristin Leachman.
Leachman’s paintings capture the beautiful texture and shapes of longleaf pine bark. Take a closer look at the curving lines in this image.
Sketch these lines slowly without looking at your paper. Look at the work of art and feel where your hand is on the paper as you draw. When you finish one line, start another one.
Now you can help make a place for animals to live.
You’ll need the following supplies:
- Colorful Tape
- Small Planter
- Dirt
- Pine Tree
Directions:
- Cover your work surface with newspaper or kraft paper for easy clean-up.
- Cover the outside of the planter with tape. Use the tape to make lines, shapes and patterns.
- Hold your plant in the middle of the pot and add dirt around it. Gently pat down the dirt.
- Water it and give it sunshine to make it grow.