Mark Dion, this blog is for you.

A buddy here in Portland recently told me that I should check out the work of artist Mark Dion. He was right, because Mark Dion turns out to be totally awesome. Dion creates installations and expeditions that focus on urban nature study, and he seems to share my interest in getting more people to appreciate the wild places in our inner cities. If you like this blog, you'll love this guy.

Here's one amazing project I was able to find. In 2002, Dion set up a wildlife observation center in the middle of New York's Madison Square Park. From that project's description:

"Fashioned after a 19th-century wildlife refuge viewing area, Dion will adorn his field station with objects, drawings, and other props that pertain to the park's natural surroundings. Created with input from park rangers and New York-area naturalists, Dion's interactive sculptural area allows for a unique and educational engagement with Madison Square Park."

This project also led to the publication of A Field Guide to the Wildlife of Madison Square Park. If you're looking for a way to express your appreciation of this blog, purchase a copy and send it to 64 Winter Street, Portland ME, 04102.