One hundred years ago the U.S. government passed what has been called one of the most powerful conservation laws ever: The Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Celebrating this 100th anniversary the Audubon Society, National Geographic, Bird Life International and Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology have declared 2018 to be The Year of the Bird.

At this moment here in Boothbay, Mathias Fine Art is putting the finishing touches to a new exhibition: BIRDS. The show will run June 27 through Aug. 5.

Artists from Maine and other New England states, New York, California, Alaska and the UK have all contributed works that feature our avian friends. More details to follow.

Related events: reception for The Year of the Bird show on Saturday, June 30 from 3-5 p.m.

Learn more about the works on display at a gallery talk on July 15 at 2:30 pm.

Birdwalk in conjunction with Boothbay Region Land Trust at Oak Point Preserve on July 10 at 7 a.m. followed by private viewing of bird art at Mathias Fine Art. This event is free and open to everyone with registration required. To register or for more information, contact BRLT Environmental Educator Tracey Hall at thall@bbrlt.org or 633-4818.

Poetry reading: You are also invited to hear Dr. Ellen Hart read poems by Emily Dickinson and other poets who have celebrated the special qualities of Birds on Friday, July 29 at 2 p.m.

Mathias Fine Art is located at 10 Mathias Drive in Trevett. Additional information will be posted on the gallery website www.mathiasfineart.com/events/or call 633-7404. Gallery hours: Wednesday through Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. and by appointment.