Nature Revealed

The phrase “force of nature” implies unbounded energy and brings to mind the dangers of hurricanes, tornadoes and the rarely-seen-in-these-parts typhoon. But Mother Nature also has a softer side; she’s as responsible for the gentle breezes and cool spring rains as she is for the lashing winds and deluge. Forces of Nature, the current show at Art Saint Louis (917 Locust Street; 314-241-4810 or www.artslouis.org), graphically portrays both the wild and mild powers of the natural world. Greg Barth’s digital print, Old Barn, draws more on the stolid might of nature. A blanket of snow covers the titular barn and the surrounding ground and trees -- but a few blades of tough grass poke up through the crust, revealing the enduring power of life. Even in the dead of winter, the grass survives, albeit in a dormant state. Forces of Nature is on display through Thursday, June 28; Art Saint Louis opens at 10 a.m. Monday through Saturday.
Mondays-Saturdays. Starts: May 19. Continues through June 28