Toolik Field Station Marks 50 Years of Arctic Research with First Friday Art Show
By Amber McCain
Photo by David McCain
A couple admires artwork inspired by Arctic research at Black Spruce Brewery’s First Friday event celebrating 50 years of the Toolik Field Station.
On August 1, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., the walls of Black Spruce Brewing Co., a beloved spot among Fairbanks locals, burst with color, science and storytelling. Crowds gathered for a First Friday event marking 50 years of Arctic research at the University of Alaska Fairbanks’ Toolik Field Station.
Hosted by UAF’s Institute of Arctic Biology, the event featured a curated selection of artwork by former Toolik artists-in-residence. Brewery visitors could move through the cozy, industrial space to view the pieces that ranged from watercolor and tile to quilts and scientific illustration, all inspired by the tundra and the science conducted there.
Toolik Field Station is located in the northern foothills of the Brooks Range and was established in 1975. The station has been a vital hub for scientists, artists, and educators studying the Arctic’s swiftly transforming environment. The exhibit marks 50 years of research.
"I didn’t come for the science, but I’m leaving with a new respect for it," said Mark, a Fairbanks First Friday regular.
Some of the featured artists included watercolorist Michael Boardman, quilt artist Ree Nancarrow, science illustrator Kristin Link, tile artist Nancy Hausle Johnson, painter David Mollett, and Fairbanks locals Iris Sutton and Seth Beaudreault.
The show drew a wide demographic, from students and researchers to longtime residents and casual First Friday goers.
“Quite the crowd tonight,” one attendee said in passing.
Photo by David McCain
Visitors gather outside the “Spice It Up” food truck and chat with Toolik Field Station reps during the First Friday celebration at Black Spruce Brewery, on August 1.
One of the handcrafted beers aptly named “Wow! Real Fruit Sour” (5.1% ABV), earned praise from more than one visitor.
“Wow! is right,” said a smiling guest, who was called ‘Robert’ by giggly friends, after taking a sip.
Outside, the local food truck “Spice It Up,” kept visitors well-fed. In keeping with the brewery’s policy, attendees had to be 21 or accompanied by a parent or guardian. The venue regularly features different food trucks and hosts “BYO”, bring your own dinner.
Art will remain on display at Black Spruce Brewing through the month of August. For more information, visit the event’s Facebook page or stop by the brewery at 3290 Peger Road.