Discovering Hidden Historical Gems

OpelikaHidden Historical GemsSalem Shotwell Covered BridgeCovered BridgeHistorical SitesRevitalizationRestorationCommunity InnovationArtist Road TripArtist DiscoveriesArtist Inspiration
Written By Amy Boadman

Blog: Amy’s Palette Perspective

Join me on my recent journey to Opelika, nestled near Auburn, Alabama, where I discovered two hidden historical treasures that left me amazed. The Salem Shotwell Covered Bridge, nestled beside Wacoochee Creek, is a picturesque delight, rescued and relocated by Lee County. Nearby, the Caroline Dean Wildflower Garden & Trail adds to the charm of Opelika Municipal Park, which also features a charming mini-train track for warmer days.

Opelika’s revitalized historical downtown, reminiscent of New Orleans’ buildings but on a smaller scale, houses cozy shops, cafes, and boutiques, inspiring community pride and attracting visitors.

If you appreciate nature, preserved historical sites, and community innovation, I invite you to explore these treasures in Opelika.

As an artist, the Salem Shotwell Covered Bridge became my muse, inspiring my next 8" X 10" watercolor painting titled 'Nature's Symphony.' This piece, richly exaggerated in pigments, pays tribute to Alabama's beauty and tranquility. You can view it on my website: www.AmyBoardmanArt.com in my online gallery and contact me for details.

Thank you, Opelika, for these inspiring gems that hold a special place in my heart.

Warm regards,

Amy Boardman, Artist

Blog: Amy’s Palette Perspective

Amy Boardman Art

Creating art to bring hope, joy, and smiles, one painting at a time!

—Amy Boardman

Amy Boadman

Hello, I'm an artist based in Huntsville, Alabama, deeply inspired by the natural world and guided by my faith. My creative journey began in the rural Midwest, surrounded by the serene beauty of farmland and rustic barns, and now flourishes amidst the breathtaking Appalachian Mountains.

From a young age, I was captivated by art through my father’s teenage sketches. This early exposure sparked a lifelong passion for painting, which has become a peaceful escape and a means of personal and spiritual expression. My work primarily explores landscapes and a variety of subjects, including pets, animals, still lifes, and food. I work with watercolor, acrylic, and digital media, and occasionally delve into gouache, each medium offering a unique way to express my vision.

Art is more than a creative outlet for me; it’s a conduit for sharing hope, joy, and smiles. My life’s journey—shaped by a nomadic lifestyle across the USA—has profoundly influenced my artistic perspective. Each new place I've called home has offered fresh inspiration, enriching my appreciation for America's diverse landscapes and deepening my connection to nature.

My art blends my love for nature, my Christian faith, and my American heritage. I strive to reflect the beauty of the natural world and the divine in my paintings, offering encouragement, love, and hope to those who encounter my work. Each piece is created with the intention of fostering gratitude and optimism, brightening the world, and uplifting spirits—one painting at a time.

Thank you for joining me on this artistic journey. Happy painting!

https://www.AmyBoardmanArt.com
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