Special On-Line Event Thursday April 29, 1:30 PM

Into the Wild -- with Paint Brush, Oils and Palette

When Rob Mullen packed the maps, food and gear for his 273-mile trek of Vermont's Long Trail, he included some items not usually found in a hiker's backpack. His goal was to capture the autumn beauty of the trail in his artwork. That meant taking along brushes, oils, his palette and blank boards from his Bolton, Vermont studio. That also meant starting out with a 60-pound load strapped to his shoulders.

The internationally recognized wildlife and wilderness artist and writer presents insights into his month-long journey as well as his life and his work in an on-line program hosted by the Community Senior Center on Thursday, April 29, at 1:30 PM.

While the early days of the hike posed a physical challenge, Mullen reports that he was able to adapt and lighten his load along the way. Also, he says completing the trek put him at the best level of cardio-fitness he's achieved in 30 years.

The Bolton artist completed several paintings that captured autumn foliage and terrain from the Canadian border to southernmost Vermont. He sold originals and images of the works to raise funds for The Green Mountain Club which manages the Long Trail, and The Vermont Wildlife Coalition of which he is a board member.

Mullen's career path started with his drawings of lab specimens that drew the attention of his biology teachers at the University of Vermont. He later worked in advertising in New York City for 16 years. In 1994 he returned to Vermont, and plans to continue to hike and paint its scenery and wildlife. "Painting on-site makes you feel a little more connected to a place," he says. "And I think walking it on your own two feet does the same."

For the internet link to this on-line program contact Martha Nye: martha@cscvt.org. Those new to joining on-line events can request phone support from a CSC volunteer coach.

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