O Oaks Oh! August 13, 2009

Join us for a free, daylong participatory artwork with renowned artist Mierle Laderman Ukeles. The day includes a Public LEARN IN focused on Sudden Oak Death (SOD) and the enactment of a Ritual, designed by Ukeles, to mourn the loss of sick oaks and to celebrate the future of a healthy forest that serves as a natural safe haven for all to enjoy.

Sudden Oak Death syndrome is a virulent disease that affects many oaks on Montalvo’s grounds and throughout the region.

Presentations and Q&A: Enjoy a rare opportunity to learn about SOD and California’s forest ecologies from leading experts and scientists in the field. Then, enjoy lunch with local stewards and hear their thoughts on Montalvo as a treasured Saratoga legacy.*

Ritual Rehearsal: Become an active participant and witness. Ukeles and guest conductor/public artist Marcus Young lead participants in a call and response vocal rehearsal before journeying into the forest.

Ritual of Mourning and Celebrating the Oaks: Participants move into the forest where Ukeles directs a Ritual that mourns the oaks and celebrates the wild forest. The Ritual concludes with an offering by Ukeles and an opportunity for participants to share their hopes for the future of Montalvo’s forest.

Concluding Reception: Participants gather to enjoy refreshments and to learn about part 2 of O OAKS OH! on Dec 2, 2009.

Got kids? An art workshop for children ages 5-12 will be held from 10 am to 12:30 pm, after which children join their parents as active participants. Workshop: $20/child; Workshop plus kid's lunch: $26/child.

*Lunch is available for purchase or you can bring your own. To pre-register for lunches and for the children’s art workshop, please call the Box Office: 408.961.5858.

Official Website: http://montalvoarts.org/events/mierle_ukeles/