Release Date: July 6,2026
Akron Soul Train Presents Two Public Programs Exploring the Intersection of Art, Science, and Environmental Stewardship
Artist-in-Residence Josh Maxwell leads community conversations and hands-on learning inspired by Working Woods: Altered But Not Erased.
July 6, 2026, AKRON, Ohio — Akron Soul Train invites the community to participate in two free public programs led by Artist-in-Residence Josh Maxwell, whose current exhibition, Working Woods: Altered But Not Erased, examines the stories held within Northeast Ohio's forests and the lasting impact of ecological change. Blending art, science, and environmental stewardship, the programs encourage participants to move from observation to action through conversation, education, and hands-on community engagement.
The first event, Art × Science: Reading the Forest, will take place on Wednesday, July 8, from 5–7 PM at Akron Soul Train. This interdisciplinary panel discussion brings together Maxwell alongside Christine Balk, Tree Pathologist, and Dr. Adam Baker, Tree Entomologist, for a conversation exploring how careful observation helps us better understand the living systems around us.
Presented in conjunction with Working Woods: Altered But Not Erased, the discussion will examine the visible signs of ecological change found throughout Northeast Ohio's forests and urban tree canopy. Through artistic documentation, scientific expertise, and field-based research, panelists will explore how insects, disease, weather events, and human activity leave lasting marks on the landscape—and what those marks reveal about environmental resilience and stewardship.
Designed for artists, educators, environmental advocates, students, and nature enthusiasts alike, the program invites participants to discover new ways of seeing the natural world through both creative and scientific perspectives.
"Josh's residency reminds us that art has the power to deepen our understanding of the places we call home," said Colleen Suich, Executive Director of Akron Soul Train. "By bringing together artists, scientists, and community members, these programs create meaningful conversations that inspire both curiosity and action."
The series concludes with From Observation to Action: Community Tree Planting & Stewardship Workshop on Tuesday, July 14, from 4–7 PM at Firestone Park Community Center.
Led by Maxwell in collaboration with Christine Balk and the City of Akron Arborist, this interactive workshop invites participants to move beyond simply learning about urban forests by helping plant three new community trees. Throughout the evening, attendees will receive expert instruction on proper planting techniques, species selection, long-term care, and the role healthy urban forests play in creating stronger, more resilient neighborhoods.
Rather than observing a demonstration, participants will work together through each stage of the planting process, gaining practical skills they can apply in their own communities. The workshop concludes with an invitation to stay for the Akron City Concert Series featuring a live performance by Blue Lunch.
Trees for the project have been generously donated through Josh Maxwell in partnership with community collaborators committed to growing a healthier, greener Akron.
Both programs are free and open to the public. Advance registration is encouraged. Visit https://www.akronsoultrain.org/events for more information and to register, or contact info@akronsoultrain.org.
EVENT INFORMATION
Art × Science: Reading the Forest
Wednesday, July 8 | 5:00–7:00 PM
Akron Soul Train, 191 S. Main Street, Akron, OH 44308
Free | Registration Encouraged | All Ages Welcome
From Observation to Action: Community Tree Planting & Stewardship Workshop
Tuesday, July 14 | 4:00–7:00 PM
Firestone Park Community Center, 1480 Girard St, Akron, OH 44301
Free | Registration Encouraged | All Ages Welcome
These programs are presented in conjunction with Working Woods: Altered But Not Erased, Josh Maxwell's current Artist-in-Residence exhibition on view at Akron Soul Train through July 18, 2026.
About Akron Soul Train
Akron Soul Train is a multidisciplinary artist residency program dedicated to supporting visual, literary, and performing artists through paid residencies, exhibitions, performances, and community engagement. By connecting artists with the community through accessible public programming, Akron Soul Train fosters creativity, dialogue, and cultural exchange throughout Northeast Ohio.