Art’s role in connecting people with nature continues to evolve, shaped by the changing needs of both human and non-human communities. Global and local influences play a role in this dynamic, and the perspectives of artists who come to Bernheim, from around the world and close to home, offer a unique lens through which to explore it. As Bernheim celebrates 45 years of its Artist in Residence program, we reflect with gratitude on the many artists whose work has amplified our mission, sparked wonder, and brought beauty to the community.
This year, from 228 submissions across 36 countries, four artists have been selected for their diverse and compelling approaches to innovation and experimentation in both formal and conceptual art practices. The Arts in Nature program is pleased to award Emanuel Zarate Ortiz, Nellie Lutzwolf, Rachel Rouzaud, and Max Sorenson as the 2025 Artists in Residence recipients.
Learn more about each artist below and explore their work by following the links to their websites. The artists are listed in the order of their future residencies at Bernheim.
Environmental Artist in Residence – Emanuel Zarate Ortiz
Emanuel Zarate Ortiz is a sculptor based in Chicago, IL whose large colorful alebrijes (traditional Mexican sculptures of fantastical and/or real animals) honor nature and its endangered inhabitants and celebrate his Mexican heritage. Emanuel proposes to create a sculpture of an endangered or threatened animal at Bernheim from wood and other natural debris that severe weather events have left behind. His work will draw attention to the effects of climate change and habitat loss. Emanuel will be at Bernheim in the spring beginning in mid-March.
Regional Artist in Residence – Nellie Lutzwolf
Nellie Lutzwolf is an artist and educator based in Bowling Green whose community murals are inspired by the natural world. She proposes to paint a mural that features an endemic or native species endangered at Bernheim. Nellie hopes to invite visitors to participate in her mural. Her residency at Bernheim begins in mid-April.
Artist in Residence – Rachel Rouzaud
Rachel Rouzaud is an artist from Paris, France, who works collaboratively with community groups to create her carpets. She proposes to create a collaborative carpet in Bernheim that reflects the various native communities inhabiting the forest and the human interaction within the environment. She plans to integrate Bernheim’s distinctive landscape, architecture, and hybrid objects into her work. Rachel will be at Bernheim in late summer.
Artist in Residence – Max Sorenson
Max Sorenson, an artist based in New Mexico, spent recent years working in ecological restoration, weaving personal and hands-on field experiences directly into his creative practice, which consists of drawings, installations, and explorations of natural materials. Max proposes to create a body of work that traces the found lines within the landscape as it relates to our conservation efforts. Max’s residency at Bernheim starts in late September.
Honorable Mentions
Environmental Artist in Residence
Cynthia Camlin
Calder Kamin
Kathryn Rusek
Regional Artist in Residence
Karen Boone
Devan Horton
Beth Reitmeyer
Nature-Based Artist in Residence
Francisco Gonzalez Camacho
Ashton Ludden
Sarah Nguyen
Nicole Simpkins
