In 1842, geologist John C. Frémont unexpectedly encountered a bumblebee on an expedition in the Rocky Mountains, and imagined each of them to be the first of their species ever to brave such geological extremes. This unlikely high‐altitude meeting embodies America’s unique brand of landscape nationalism, historically attempting to reconcile both expansionist and conservationist thought.

The Mountain and the Bumblebee brings together selected works by contemporary poets and artists in a variety of media who confront notions of landscape as both cultural icon and raw material. In this traveling exhibition curated by Indiana University of Pennsylvania professor Chris McGinnis, artists maneuver the complex web of references contributing to our understanding of landscape.

Exhibition dates: September 19 – October 24

schuylkillcenter.org/blog/event/the-mountain-and-the-bumblebee-art-gallery-opening-reception