Lichen is a living community: a combination of fungi, algae and (sometimes) cyanobacteria living together in a symbiotic relationship. This complex lifeform can live almost anywhere: on soil, tree bark, cliff faces, and even headstones in a cemetery. Lichen grows slowly and lives a long time. It is an indicator of air quality and thrives when the air is clean, just like we do.
Join us for this special program with Lakewood Artist in Residence Alyssa Rose Gregory as we explore the wonderful world of lichen through education, drawing, and close observation. Alyssa Rose Gregory will present an introduction to the fascinating world of lichen, sharing insights into its unique forms and ecological importance before guiding participants through techniques for drawing lichen. Following the presentation, lichenologist Tanner Barnharst, author of Minnesota Lichen Guide and Lichens of the Eastern US, will lead attendees on a guided walk to observe lichen in its natural habitat, with opportunities to stop, sketch, and deepen their appreciation of these remarkable living communities.
Class attendees will also receive a copy of the lichen field journal created by Gregory through this project.
About the artist: Alyssa Rose Gregory
Alyssa’s work explores the intricate details of the natural world through watercolor, writing, and printmaking. She became interested in scientific illustration after drawing animal bones for an archaeology class at the University of Minnesota. Eager to learn more, she signed up for classes at the Minnesota School of Botanical Art, where she discovered a vibrant, supportive ecosystem of artists. Alyssa also shares her love of the natural world through her work at the Andersen Horticultural Library, where she coordinates a botanical illustration program and curates the children’s book collection, and the Bell Museum, where she supports community outreach events.
Lichenologist: Tanner Barnharst
Tanner is a professional naturalist and writer who has been educating for over a decade. Tanner has written 3 lichen field guides and volunteered over 1,000 hours to the MN Master Naturalist program over the last 2 years. He is a professional photographer specializing in macro (close-up) photography. Tanner supports Lichen of Lakewoods by providing expert knowledge of lichen structures and forms and by leading educational walks for the public.
The Lakewood Welcome Center
This event takes place in the Community Room in the Welcome Center at Lakewood. This beautiful, state-of-the-art building provides a warm and sunny backdrop for community events, in addition to offering quiet space for families to gather and make arrangements for end-of-life.
Parking and Transportation
Driving Directions
Parking is available on any of the roads inside Lakewood’s gates unless otherwise noted with a no parking sign. Handicap parking will be available near the Welcome Center. Lakewood does not have an onsite parking lot – it is street parking only. This means you may have to park a short distance away and walk. We strongly encourage carpooling and public transportation.
Bus Directions
Metro Transit line 36 and the E line stop directly outside of Lakewood’s gates, a short walk to the Welcome Center.
Bike Directions
Please lock bikes at the rack near the main entrance gates and walk to the Welcome Center. Do not lock bikes to trees or signs, leave bicycles unlocked on the grounds., or leave shared bikes or scooters overnight.
Scholarship Program:
At Lakewood, we want education, urban nature resources, and art to be accessible to all. If you are would like to participate but cannot afford the ticket cost, please email events@lakewoodcemetery.org and we will make sure there’s a space for you.
Questions?
Call the Lakewood events line at 612-540-5165 or email events@lakewoodcemetery.org
