BETHEL – Sara Wright, naturalist from Woodstock, will discuss her “Woman to Woman” Peruvian artisan project at the next gathering of Down Home Maine to be held from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Thursday, June 5, at the Gehring House, 77 Broad St.

Wright serves as local spokeswoman for the project, which empowers Peruvian tribeswomen to create and export handicrafts combining local cultural themes and renewable area resources. Major products include multicolored wall hangings called “arpilleras,” and one-of-a-kind Amazonian palm fiber baskets.

Wright, an instructor of English and women’s studies at Central Maine Community College and the University of Maine, is also a published author. Three years ago, she received a grant to study medicinal plants in the Peruvian Amazon and while there she discovered its people and their art.

Since that time she has been working with the tribeswomen, helping them to create a sustainable economy by selling their baskets and wall hangings informally in Western Maine.

All profits support the Indian families and provide health and educational opportunities.

Down Home Maine is sponsored by Western Mountains Senior College to feature presentations by unique, creative and adventurous Maine people.

The program is open to the public free. However, voluntary contributions will be accepted to offset Senior College expenses. Light hors d’oeuvres, wine and beverages will be available.

For more information, contact Gartner at 665-2181 or Seabury Lyon at 836-2576.