NEW ALBANY — While the Arts Council of Southern Indiana brings art of all flavors to the community, it also welcomes nature. Julie Schweitzer, executive director, Arts Council of Southern Indiana, explained that oftentimes artists have a strong appreciation for nature, so it’s ideal that the Arts Council attracts both the naturalist and artist.  

“I think there’s a respect for the creation in nature and there’s inspiration in nature,” Schweitzer said. “Look around at the beautiful work that wouldn’t be inspired without nature.”

On Saturday, the Arts Council opened its doors to both. As part of the Monarch Watch Waystation Project, more than 100 butterflies were released during the Beyond Borders Celebration at the Arts Council of Southern Indiana. Each person had a single butterfly and they were all released at once.

“Everyone had a box, and we let them all out,” said Mike Pattison, president, Southern Indiana Botanical Society.  

The Southern Indiana Botanical Society raised the funds necessary for the 108 butterflies from a California farm. The objective was to educate the public.

“If they took anything home, I would want them to take home that we need to plant more milkweed,” Pattison said. “We’re gardeners, and we’re always saying remove weeds, but today we’re saying plant milkweeds.”

Pattison explained the milkweeds are the only plant the monarch butterflies will lay eggs on, and it’s a primary food source. However, with construction and pollutants such as pesticides, the habitat is shrinking.

Brian Hughes, who recently moved his family to New Albany, said he enjoyed the event and he did walk away with the message Pattison hoped people would learn.

“I’m thinking about planting some milkweeds,” Hughes said.

Ardis Moonlight, master gardener, explained a person only needs to plant 10 milkweeds to invite monarchs to lay their eggs. However, native milkweed is best because it returns each year, and the tropical varietals do not.     

The Monarch Waystation in New Albany is part of a nationwide network of gardens that support the monarch butterflies’ migration between Canada and Mexico. The monarchs that were released on Saturday are now heading south.

The monarch release also facilitated educating the community about conservation.

“I learned that the butterflies are beautiful and we should save them,” said Hannah Clere.

Participants were invited to name their butterfly after a loved one, and Clere chose to honor her grandmother Jean.

The monarch release is also about improving the community.

“It beautifies the community. It’s always good to see life and nature together,” said Abigail Gahan, vice president, Arts Council of Southern Indiana.

Mayor Jeff Gahan echoed her statement.

“I think this is a tremendous service for our community,” Gahan said. “This has been a very knowledgeable and educational experience. Our community is a lot more attractive and we are grateful for that.”

Art was also a focus of celebration, as between now and Sept. 21, the Beyond Borders exhibit will be on display at the Arts Council of Southern Indiana building. Artists include Bruce Frank, Wyatt Gregg, Ardis Moonlight, Kim Raber, Larry Beisler and more.

“The more we create this environment, the more people will come here,” Schweitzer said. “People think of us as a family, and a community. If we can create a community where the arts thrive, then we are a success and today you saw that. Everyone had a smile on their face.”

The Arts Council of Southern Indiana is located at 820 E. Market St. For more information visit artscouncilsi.org or like it on Facebook.