A love of nature and a newfound passion for painting come together in "The Joy of Birds: The Art of Robert Hafey," an art exhibition opening Thursday, June 5, at Four Rivers Environmental Education Center in Channahon.

The free show features 20 watercolor pieces by Robert Hafey, a Homer Glen photographer and painter whose work highlights the beauty and diversity of birds found in Will County forest preserves. The exhibition runs through Sunday, July 6, and is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays.

“Growing up as a free-range child, I had the opportunity to explore the natural world all around me,” Hafey said. “That exposure led to a lifelong interest in, and admiration of, the natural world.”

Though he had a background in creative arts, Hafey hadn’t drawn or painted in more than 40 years until early 2024, when he set a personal goal to build a portfolio and become an artist. He turned to his own photography of birds taken while hiking Will County trails for inspiration.

“Birds are loved by all,” he said. “They have always and will continue to spark our interest because of their beauty and ability to fly. That is why, for me, they are the perfect subject.”

While Four Rivers typically hosts traveling exhibits from around the country, staff saw this summer as a chance to celebrate local talent.

“We hope this is the first of many opportunities to highlight the incredible artists living in the Will County region,” said Jerome Gabriel, facility supervisor at Four Rivers.

Gabriel said the exhibit offers a fresh take on birding, one of the most popular pastimes in the preserves.

“Hafey’s work transforms his photographs of local birds into a new medium through watercolor,” Gabriel said. “Visitors might recognize some of the common birds they see in their own yards depicted in his work and may find some new ones to watch out for as well.”

Visitors to the exhibit will also have the opportunity to sign a guest book and enter a raffle for a chance to win a print of one of the artworks. Contact information will be available for those interested in purchasing pieces directly from the artist.

A special Meet the Artist event is scheduled at Four Rivers for noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, June 8. Hafey will be available to answer questions, discuss his creative process and share the stories behind the birds he paints.