Scott “Doc” Varn is a passionate artist, explorer, and preservationist. When Doc discovered a print of an 1872 wood engraving that depicted a distinct rock formation on a hiking trail near his home, he realized it was a page from a 150 year-old book with stories and artwork depicting the enchantment of beautiful lands and cultural sites unspoiled by human impact. This discovery changed the course of his life. 

Doc’s quest began to retrace the steps of the early explorers and to revisit the locations they uncovered 150 years ago. Intrigued to find out if these picturesque places had been preserved or lost, he began traveling around the county to locate over 200 “Picturesque America” sites. With more than 900 locations in the book, Doc is on a life-long mission to return to every site in the original book. 

With the help of local artists and writers that represent each location, Doc is currently writing a 21st century version of the “Picturesque America” book. The modern-day edition features new artwork and stories that will reflect upon what these locations once symbolized, how they have changed over the past 150 years, and what can be done now to ensure they will be here for at least 150 more.

PRESERVING A PICTURESQUE AMERICA

Preserving a Picturesque America’s mission is to bring artists, explorers and conservationists together to recreate the artwork of “Picturesque America” and to protect the locations in the book for future generations. Founded by Doc in 2017, PAPA launched its first chapter in North Carolina (Asheville). Additional chapters include: South Carolina (Charleston), New York, Pennsylvania and Tennessee. PAPA chapters across America will continue to expand and unite local communities through art and conservation - promoting the diversity of our cultural heritage and protection of our country’s historic treasures.