Editor’s Note

EDITOR’S NOTE Go with the flow

HIGH MUSEUM OF ART ATLANTA | HIGH.ORG | SEPTEMBER 16–MARCH 5

MAJOR SUPPORT PROVIDED BY

William Banks Jr. Trust FUNDING PROVIDED BY PREMIER EXHIBITION SERIES SPONSOR PREMIER EXHIBITION SERIES SUPPORTERS ACT Foundation, Inc. Sarah and Jim Kennedy Louise Sams and Jerome Grilhot BENEFACTOR EXHIBITION SERIES SUPPORTERS Robin and Hilton Howell

This exhibition is organized by the High Museum of Art, Atlanta. Stephen Burks (American, born 1969), designer; DEDON, Germany, established 1990, manufacturer; The Others (Lanterns S, M, and Statue Lika), 2017, fiber (high-density polyethylene), aluminum, marble, acrylic, and LED solar panels, High Museum of Art, Atlanta, gift of DEDON. Photo by Joe Coscia.

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Massive wildfires. A violent war. Contagious diseases. An attempted mass shooting. Government corruption. These are topics that could frame an apocalyptic novel. But in fact, they are news stories from a recent episode of “Nightly News.” The reality of the world has left me feeling heavy lately, and I needed to tune out for a minute. So, in July, I booked a weekend trip to southeast Tennessee to go kayaking BY AMY WENK along the Hiwassee River. Like many people, getting out in nature helps me destress. I also find that paddling reminds me of an important life lesson — to go with the flow. If you paddle upstream, you will get nowhere and tire quickly. Like the river, life takes us from calm waters to more chaotic rapids, and we must navigate those. I’ve been paddling for almost 20 years. I had stumbled across a whitewater kayaking course at Clemson University where I earned my degree in the early 2000s. I signed up not knowing what to expect, merely trying to satisfy my physical educaGot Aches & Pains? Complete Orthopedic Care for Weekend Warriors of all ages. • Now providing multiple Regenerative Medicine techniques, including PRP • Timely appointments • Guaranteed to see the doctor at every visit • Convenient free parking in front All insurance accepted 1705-B Mt. Vernon Rd Dunwoody, GA 30338

tion requirement to graduate.

When I walked into the first class, I was the only female student and quickly felt like I didn’t belong. Despite being intimidated, I gave it a shot, and we spent weeks practicing on Lake Hartwell. There, I perfected my strokes and learned complex moves like how to completely roll over with my vessel in the water. Our final was amazing — a two-day camping trip, where we paddled several rivers across the Southeast. The first time I got my kayak onto the river, I felt such a connection to nature. I belonged there. I knew then that paddling would become a lifelong passion.

Over the years, I’ve visited various rivers and wanted to share a few of my favorites as a complement to our “Get Out of Town” section that starts on page 28. ■ Hiwassee River – I go back often to this river in southeast Tennessee. With mostly gentle rapids, it’s easy enough for beginners. The landscape can hardly be beat, as you float along the tree-covered bluffs of the Cherokee National Forest, where there is no development. I recommend trying out the Hiwassee Outfitters in Reliance, Tenn. ■ Nantahala River – The Nantahala in western North Carolina is a bit more fast-paced. The water is quite cold, making it a perfect option for a hot summer day. I find this river to be exhilarating, and it helps if you have prior paddling experience. Check out the Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City, N.C. ■ Buffalo National River – If you get a chance, you won’t regret a trip to the Buffalo River in Arkansas. I spent four days canoeing and camping along this river and was amazed at the pristine water, the beautiful mountain bluffs, and the variety of wildlife. It was a true adventure! ■ Rainbow Springs or Silver Springs – Florida has many spring-fed rivers, which are just gorgeous paddles. I really enjoy the blue waters and plentiful turtles at Rainbow Springs in Dunnellon, Fla. Silver Springs, located near Ocala, Fla., is home to hundreds of rhesus macaque monkeys, which were brought there in the 1930s for a movie. It’s wild to see them along the river! ■ Tallapoosa River – The Tallapoosa River spans more than 265 miles, flowing from the southern end of the Appalachian Mountains in Georgia into the foothills in southern Alabama. It’s relaxing and peaceful, making it ideal for beginners.

I hope this might inspire you to get out on the water, escape the chaotic world, and find a bit of peace. Of course, always paddle responsibly and with the proper equipment.