Janis Howes has been recognized as the winner of the 2022 Puget Sound Bird Fest Poster Art Contest for her stunning watercolor and gauche painting, "Trumpeter Swans of Skagit Valley Farmlands. " Her artwork, chosen from 17 submissions, will be prominently featured on the promotional poster for the festival scheduled in Edmonds, Washington, on September 10-11. The annual contest, sponsored by the Edmonds Arts Festival Foundation, aims to celebrate local artists while raising awareness about the importance of birds and nature. Howes drew inspiration from her visits to Skagit Valley, where she observed the elegant swans and geese that inhabit the area during winter. The jury commended her piece for its storytelling qualities and its ability to convey a sense of place and movement.

This year's festival will also include a keynote presentation by Martha Jordan, a prominent swan biologist, discussing the relationship between wildlife and land use. With various activities planned, the Bird Fest offers a mix of free and paid events for attendees of all ages. This initiative not only highlights artistic talent but also fosters community engagement and environmental education.