Green Mountain College senior and artist Jason Jansen is connecting and celebrating local farms on April 17 with “Sunday Sprouting,” a community potluck and gathering.  The event will feature a silent auction of Jason’s artwork, inspired by Vermont, farms, local produce, and starry nights.  Proceeds will benefit the Rutland Area Farm and Food Link (RAFFL), a community development organization working to increase access to local foods and strengthen the regional economy.

Jason wants to make an impact with his capstone project – something to connect him to the surrounding community.  “I have a connection to the land here in Vermont,” Jason explains when asked about his reasons for organizing the event.  “I wanted to host an event that would honor the land and help its farmers before I graduate.”

Jason has been working since December to create the artwork that will be auctioned off at the gathering. His ceramics and whimsical textiles illustrate his connection and love for Vermont landscapes. A favorite textile piece of both friends and family is a cityscape of Poultney with pigs flying over it in the night sky. His ceramic pieces include some that experimented with materials that can be used as cookware.  Jason’s work was recently featured at the Chaffee Art Center’s “MADE  in Vermont: the Art of Vermont Undergrads” show.

RAFFL Board member Eleanor Tison is Jason’s academic advisor.  Eleanor said, “When Jason presented his project I knew right away he had a wonderfully generous idea and the serious talent to pull this off.  I am really looking forward to this creative combination of art and agriculture.  It will be a great time for everyone!”

The April 17“Sunday Sprouting” celebration of local farms and food is free and open to the general public. Jason promises that there will be “music, laughter, and a good old-fashioned potluck!”

WHAT: Sunday Sprouting Community Celebration and Potluck

WHEN: 11:30am – 3pm on Sunday, April 17

WHERE: The Gorge (Withey Hall), Green Mountain College, Poultney