Hanka observes and sketches nature, then inscribes the drawings onto copper plates using acid and diamond pointed tools. The plates are hand-wiped and imprinted into damp rag papers. This etching technique uses materials and methods that have changed little since the Renaissance.

The exhibit features many familiar Michigan images such as box turtles, brook trout, oak trees, blue herons, and the Lake Superior coastline. Hanka, whose studio is in Kalamazoo, Michigan, values clear-eyed observation but strives to combine skillful drawing with a deeper vision to create images with greater emotional content.

Master etchers Whistler and Rembrandt are two artists who have influenced Hanka most directly. Hanka's etchings are exhibited in museums across the country and the world.

The Wandering Naturalist art exhibit will be displayed until September 5, 2005 in the Wildlife Interpretive Gallery. It is open during Zoo hours everyday and is free with the purchase of Zoo admission.

The Detroit Zoological Institute is comprised of the Detroit Zoo and the Belle Isle Nature Zoo. The Institute, founded in 1928, is committed to celebrating and saving wildlife. Situated on 125 acres of naturalistic exhibits, the Detroit Zoo is open year round with several indoor viewing areas. The Detroit Zoo is located at the intersection of Ten Mile Road and Woodward Avenue, just off I-696 in Royal Oak. Admission is $11.00 for adults 13 to 61; $9.00 for senior citizens 62 and older and $7.00 for students ages 2 to 12; and children under 2 are free. For more information call (248) 398- 0900 or visit http://www.detroitzoo.org/ . The Belle Isle Nature Zoo is located on Belle Isle Park in Detroit. The Nature Zoo is currently under construction but some family programming takes place on the weekends with advance reservations by calling (313) 852-4056. The Detroit Zoological Society works to promote the general welfare and interests of the Detroit Zoological Institute. Financial support has allowed the Zoo to expand its animal collection, open new exhibits, and implement major beautification projects. To help the Detroit Zoological Society through financial support, partnership opportunities, membership, or volunteering, please call (248) 541-5717.

Source: Detroit Zoological Institute

CONTACT: Rana Kozouz of Detroit Zoological Institute, +1-248-398-0903
ext. 3234, rkozouz@detroitzoo.org

Web site: http://www.detroitzoo.org/