# 14 VENERABLE TREES
| Author : | Tom Kimmerer LEXINGTON, KY |
| Artist : | Claudia Michler LEXINGTON, KY |
| Sponsor : | Arts Connect |
Tom Kimmerer (1950): Venerable Trees
Tom Kimmerer of Lexington, Ky., is a scientist, author and photographer who founded the conservation non-profit, Venerable Trees, Inc. He was a professor at UK teaching tree physiology, forest biology and urban forestry. He authored VenerableTrees to help showcase the beauty, age, size, and splendor of the ancient trees and pastures in the Bluegrass Region. In his book, Kimmerer explains the biology of Bluegrass trees and explores why they are now in danger. The book features more than 100 color photographs many of them depicting trees that are 300 to 500 years old.
Claudia Michler:
BOOKBENCHESLEX.ORG
In Venerable Trees, Tom Kimmerer teaches readers how Bur Oaks, some of which are hundreds of years old, are part of the unique living history in the Bluegrass Region. These ancient trees and their saplings need protection to continue Kentucky’s cultural and environmental legacy. On this Book Bench, Bur Oak leaves spring up amid a cacophony of native plant companions. Artist Claudia Michler of Lexington, Ky., is inspired by her horticultural work with flowers, plants and urban design.