2021 Program

Artist 'in Residence'

In the spirit of our namesake, Jay Norwood "Ding" Darling - artist and Pulitzer Prize-winning political cartoonist - we host our second Artist in Residence program in 2021, featuring Fort Myers artist Rachel Pierce.

Rachel will make her first appearance on December 1 for the 75th Anniversary Celebration & "Ding" Darling Day.

Stay tuned to this page for further art events with Rachel throughout 2021. Mark your calendars for her Refuge Exhibition October 1 through November 10, 2021.

For questions, contact the "Ding" Darling Wildlife Society at 239-472-1100 ext. 4 or by email. You can help support the artist-in-residenct program with philanthopic donations.

For information about applying for Artist in Residence status, click HERE.

Schedule of Remaining Artist-in-Residence Programs

Thursday, April 15, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.: FREE Popup Plein Air Group Paint on Visitor & Education Center Patio

Tuesday, April 20, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.: FREE Popup Plein Air Demo along Wildlife Drive

Thursday, April 22, 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.: Earth Day Paint a Spoonbill with Rachel. Limited to 10 participants each. Pre-register by clicking HERE.

Thursday, May 6, 10 and 11 a.m.: Make a Mother's Day Card with Rachel. Limited to 10 participants. Pre-register by clicking HERE.

Summer Thursdays, dates and time TBA: Paint on the Patio with Rachel and Paint Shells at Perry Tract with Rachel.

Thursday, June 17, 10 and 11 a.m.: Make a Father's Day Card with Rachel. Limited to 10 participants. Pre-register by clicking HERE.

October 1 - November 10: Artist-in-Residence Refuge Exhibition