11/07/11 cw/bv

HAYS, Kan. -- Art and science don't mix. Or, do they?

Throughout October, visitors to FHSU's Kansas Wetlands Education Center have enjoyed the FHSU art exhibit currently set up in the Koch Wetlands Exhibit Gallery, called "Second Nature: Art from Reclaimed Objects."

In conjunction with the closing of the art exhibit on Nov. 12, FHSU ceramics students will lead two public ceramics and mixed media workshops combining art, nature and recycling. Based on the habits of pack rats, nature's own hoarders and recyclers, students will study pack rat behaviors, see a real pack rat nest on the KWEC nature trail and build a pack rat sculpture. Students will also help to build a human-sized pack rat nest to teach others about this fascinating natural hoarder.

The workshops, "Pack Rats: The Original American Hoarders" will be Saturday, Nov. 12 at the KWEC. The first workshop will be from 9 a.m. to noon for students age 12 and under. Children under 6 must be accompanied by an adult. The second workshop will be from 1 to 4 p.m. for students over 12 years of age.

Space is limited, so pre-registration is required. Cost is $5 per participant for supplies. Call the KWEC to pre-register, 877-243-9268.

These programs are part of a series of recycling-themed programs being offered at the KWEC over the next few months. The recycling series has been made possible through a grant from the Golden Belt Community Foundation.

For more information, contact KWEC Director Curtis Wolf at 620-786-7456 or by email to cjwolf@fhsu.edu.