Submitted photo Nicole Zempel is the current exhibit feature at the Marshall Area Fine Arts Council gallery on North Third Street.

MARSHALL — Nicole Zempel enjoys the outdoors and digital photography, so she combined them in a way that’s led to art exhibits.

Zempel is the current exhibit feature at the Marshall Area Fine Arts Council gallery on North 3rd Street in downtown Marshall. Her exhibit includes a variety of nature photos, everything from landscapes to mushroom spores.

She said she bases each exhibit on what showcases a variety of natural subjects. They might or might not be subjects that are likely to be purchased.

“I don’t base my exhibits on what’s likely to sell,” Zempel said. “I plan it in a way that shows the variety that can be found in natural settings. I’ll include things like tree lichen and snails that people probably wouldn’t put on their walls.”

She always includes mushroom spore photos since they’ve been popular with gallery visitors. She took an interest in them because of her enthusiasm for wild edible plants.

She hopes that seeing her digital photos sparks an interest in outdoor activities, in a way that leads people to experience it in their spare time.

“I just want people to want to get out and explore,” she said. “They should look for surprises. Nature will surprise them if they take the time.”

Zempel was recommended to MAFAC by Southwest Minnesota Arts Council access and marketing coordinator Krystl Louwagie. She previously exhibited at the SMAC gallery. Her exhibit at MAFAC runs through Nov. 8.

“I’m very grateful to Krystl and to MAFAC,” Zempel said. “The exhibit became a good opportunity. It allows me to branch out and reach more people.”