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the Wilds

As people become more concerned for the environment and the impact humans have on nature, one fast-growing Ohio conservation organization called the Wilds is diligently fighting to protect wildlife through scientific research and environmental education. In order to continue to protect and preserve the land and animals, a group of nationally-acclaimed Cincinnati artists called Masterworks for Nature (MWFN) will hold an art show and sale to benefit the Wilds on April 18, 2008, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Located on nearly 10,000 acres in southeast Ohio, the Wilds is home to more than 25 species of rare and endangered wildlife from Africa, Asia and North America and hundreds of indigenous species. Scientists at the Wilds conduct research year- round at their facilities and at field research stations abroad. Throughout the year, visitors can learn about the natural world through on-site experiences, summer camps and other community programs.

"Each year it’s exciting to see more and more people concerned about the environment and express their desire to help in a way that makes an impact," Dr. Evan Blumer, the Wilds` Executive Director, said. "By teaming up with conservation-minded organizations like
Masterworks for Nature, we’re able to increase awareness for our cause, provide a way for people to tangibly support our mission and make a real difference in the world of conservation."

Beginning April 18, 2008, at Cincinnati Art Galleries, MWFN will hold an art show and sale to benefit the Wilds. Sales from tickets to the opening reception and a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the artwork will benefit the Wilds` international field research projects. Thirteen Cincinnati MWFN artists as well as Jeff Gandert, a guest artist, will be selling nearly
fifty of their latest projects, many inspired by trips to the Wilds.

"The mission of Masterworks for Nature is fundamentally to increase awareness of our natural world. We can do that by helping to raise funds for organizations that do the day-to-day work of conservation," DeVere Burt, Masterworks for Nature artist, said. "When we discovered the terrific work being done by the staff at the Wilds, we felt compelled to lend our talents in support of their cause."

The show, Masterworks for Nature Celebrates the Wilds, will be hosted by Cincinnati Art Galleries on 225 East 6th Street from April 18, 2008, through May 9, 2008. The opening night benefit will include a presentation by Dr. Blumer, food, drinks and entertainment. Advance tickets can be purchased by sending $50 per person to Cincinnati Art Galleries, payable to the Wilds. The exhibit and sale will be open to the public beginning April 19.