Science Loves Art (SLA) is thrilled to announce the Pollinator Festival, taking place on Saturday, June 15th, from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM at 4th Street Studios. This vibrant, free event promises a day filled with live music, art, food, and numerous activities designed to bring the community together while celebrating the vital role of pollinators in our ecosystem.

René Williams, the driving force behind 4th Street Studios and the founder of SLA, shared the inspiration and goals of the Pollinator Festival with This is Laramie. “Our mission is to bring art and science together through experiences, discovery, and exploration,” Williams said. “We aim to provide hands-on experiences that integrate both art and science, benefiting individuals and the community as a whole.”

A Day of Diverse Activities for All Ages

The Pollinator Festival stands out this year with the highest number of collaborations to date. Ten local organizations, including beekeepers, Feeding Laramie Valley, the Cheyenne Botanical Gardens, and the UW Williams Conservatory, will offer a variety of activities. “Everyone we’ve asked to participate this year is providing free experiences for the community,” Williams explained. “From planting seed pods to interactive performances by Relative Theatrics, there’s something for everyone, regardless of age.”

Live Music and Local Talent

The festival will feature an impressive lineup of local musicians curated with the help of local music expert Tom Mazzetti. Performers include Bridget Burke, Deacon Brown Blues, Jay Shogren, and Kelly Trujillo with her new collaboration, Granite, Sandstone, and Soil. “We try to maintain ongoing collaborations with artists and musicians we’ve worked with before, while also welcoming new talents who are eager to join,” Williams said.

Community Engagement and Support

The Pollinator Festival not only offers entertainment but also fosters community engagement and supports local artists, musicians, and businesses. Williams highlighted the festival’s inclusive nature: “We want something for all ages – from six to ninety-six. Our aim is to show that art and science are interconnected, and everyone can find common ground in these interests.”

Local businesses will also benefit through a raffle, with marketing opportunities provided by SLA. Additionally, the festival marks the launch of summer programs, including camp kits and Art From Earth kits, designed to encourage outdoor exploration and creativity. “These kits are a way to extend our reach beyond the studio, promoting nature appreciation and creativity on a larger scale,” Williams added.

A Growing Tradition

The Pollinator Festival is part of a broader effort by SLA to create enriching community events. “We started with our fermentation festival, and the Pollinator Festival has grown from there,” Williams explained. “It’s an evolving event, and we hope to continue expanding our collaborations and impact each year.”

With support from the City of Laramie, the Wyoming Arts Council, and Albany County Tourism Board, Toyota of Laramie, Hammontree, Stagepoint FCU and Bloedorn, the Pollinator Festival promises to be a highlight of the summer. Join the celebration at 4th Street Studios and experience the magic of art and science coming together to create a vibrant, healthy community.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, June 15th
• Time: 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM
• Location: 4th Street Studios, 315 S. 4th St., Laramie, WY 82070
• Admission: Free
• Contact: info@sciencelovesart.org

For more information, visit the 4th Street Studios Facebook page or website.