Mushroom Mania

Join Boothbay Region Land Trust for a captivating morning with local author and artist, Hilary E. Bartlett, as she presents “Mushroom Mania”, an exploration of the fascinating world of mushrooms. Hilary will delve into the history of mushrooms as food and medicine and their vital role in the ecosystem. Discover how these remarkable fungi support plant, forest, and human health through colorful photographs and commentary.  In her presentation, Hilary will also introduce her new book, “Mushroom Mania”, featuring stunning watercolor portraits of Maine’s wild mushroom species, delicious recipes, and practical tips for growing mushrooms at home. Afterward, she will be available to sell and sign copies of the book.

Hilary Bartlett, born and raised in postwar Liverpool, England, studied fungi as part of her microbiology training and earned a doctorate from University College London. A summer fellowship brought her to Boothbay Harbor in 1975 to work at Bigelow Lab, where she fell in love with Maine’s rocky coast and never left. Hilary turned to mushroom hunting in rural Maine, later shifting from scientific research to an art career after her daughter was born. Her award-winning paintings have been exhibited in galleries in Maine and Santa Fe. She also taught microbiology for 11 years at the University of Maine Augusta. Her first book, The Thistle Inn: A Wee Bit of Scotland in Maine, was published in 2020.

This free event has limited seating, and advanced registration is required. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn, connect, and celebrate the world of mushrooms!

Register now to reserve your spot.