It is a particular honor to have my work included in this collaborative project alongside Kansas artists for whom I have a great deal of respect and admiration. We have a richly talented and inclusive art community here in the Great Plains, so it is with particular joy that I have worked on this project celebrating Kansas trees, knowing that I did so with other regional artists. Sara Taliaferro
I chose the persimmon because I'm a big fan of native plants, especially native plants that produce gorgeous and delicious fruits, especially ones that I can forage in our neighborhood! Over recent years I've discovered a variety of native persimmon trees around campus and Old West Lawrence and have harvested the fruits each September and October and freeze the pulp to make baked goods in the winter or persimmon butter. We now have a six year old Granddaughter of the giant persimmon tree on campus growing well in our front yard and anxiously await her first fruiting. Lisa Grossman
I selected to represent the Black Walnut Tree in this book because of fond personal memories connected to them, stretching way back into early childhood. I remember picking up the walnuts on my grandfather’s farm, helping him shuck them, and marveling at the intricate patterns embossed on their shells. Then when opened- not only was there a delicious treat within, but yet another series of lovely niches, nooks, and crannies which stirred my imagination. Black Walnut trees offer so many uses; from food and gorgeous furniture, to medicinal purposes -and coloring agents as well. Judy Graversen Algaier
I chose the rough-leaved dogwood because it is a common native plant that is an unsung part of the tough landscape fabric by Kansas roadsides--and roadsides are where most people experience the landscape. It is very colorful and provides dense shelter for birds. Paul Hotvedt
I just love Apple trees! Rachel Herring
The tree chosen was the white sycamore. It can look very conventional as a tree but also very wild with not only the branches but even the trunk going any direction needed to survive. I also love that it sheds it old bark which has become too restrictive to reveal bark that is fresh. Libeth Tempero