“Volucrine” means “of or relating to birds.” This project is a love letter to our avian kin across the state.

Date & Location

Saturday, May 23, 2026, from 10:00 AM -5:00 PM

Henderson Meadow (near the Shortleaf Shelter)
Conestee Nature Preserve
Parking at 601 Fork Shoals Rd, Greenville, SC 29605

Event Overview

Volucrine Beloved is an interdisciplinary art and nature project exploring the fragile, powerful relationship between humans and birds. Through field research, deep observation, and painting, this work reflects on birds as both otherworldly and deeply vulnerable, and invites us to see ourselves in them.

This culminating event brings the project into the landscape that inspired it, combining a guided bird walk with an open-air exhibition and art experience.

What to Expect

Outdoor Exhibition of original paintings created from field research by Alexander Rouse
Guided Bird Walks led by Conestee staff (offered approximately every 2 hours)
Zines + Limited Prints available for purchase
Benefit Art Sale — 50% of proceeds support local conservation efforts

About the Project

This body of work was developed through immersive field research across South Carolina, where the artist studied bird life, documented the landscape, and gathered natural references. The resulting series includes eight paintings (18 x 24"), alongside written and illustrated works that reflect on kinship, mortality, and the shared vulnerability between species.

Why Attend?

This experience is an invitation to slow down, observe, and reconnect with the living world. Through both guided exploration and visual art, you’ll be encouraged to reflect on your own relationship to nature, and what forms of life feel like kin to you.