Seasons - Autumn 2017 {Vol. 8 Issue 4}

HORTICULTURE EXHIBITION

SCULPTURE EXHIBITION

SEASON HIGHLIGHT

MASTER LECTURE SERIES

Chrysanthemums and More!

Rodin and the Contemporary Figurative Tradition

Holiday Gift Show

Ann Patchett, Julia Gruen, and Jed Perl

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Autumn 2017 Volume 8, Issue 4

CHRISTMAS AND HOLIDAY TRADITIONS AROUND THE WORLD

RODIN AND THE CONTEMPORARY FIGURATIVE TRADITION

THE PLEASURE OF GROWING PAINS

It is my honor and great privilege to announce that the Board of Directors has authorized moving forward with construction of the facilities and grounds in the Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love capital campaign. This effort is possible because of the marvelous support of the Meijer family and a host of generous members, families, foundations and businesses. The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, and we are deeply grateful to those who have joined us on this historic journey.

CHRYSANTHEMUMS AND MORE!

As of this issue’s printing, we have received gifts and pledges totaling $112.5 million toward our goal of $115 million. Due to the generosity of our supporters we have come a great distance on our journey, yet we still have a long way to go. As the name of the campaign implies, we welcome all gifts. Your gift to the campaign is very important and we would love to include your name in the architecture of our facilities.

In September, construction will begin with the Peter C. and Emajean Cook Transportation Center, Covenant Learning Center and Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater. Guests enjoy watching facilities being built, and we are making every effort to enable safe viewing with minimum disruption.

As you may recall, we successfully did this with the installations of Michele Oka Doner’s floor sculpture, Beneath The Leafy Crown, and Dale Chihuly’s sculpture, Lena’s Garden, as well as the Taste of the Gardens Café expansion. A temporary entrance will be built next spring to make room for construction of the new welcome center, too. Look for progress updates in each issue of Seasons.

Our fall calendar is full with exhibitions like Chrysanthemums and More!, ArtPrize 2017, Rodin and the Contemporary Figurative Tradition and Christmas & Holiday Traditions Around the World, as well as events like the Holiday Gift Show, Christmas Cabaret Holiday Gala and several guest lecturers. As a freshman in college, I remember a professor’s good advice: “Don’t miss the evening lectures—everyone is welcome and they are included with the cost of tuition.” Eventually, I realized how incredible it is to experience a great lecturer tell his or her story. As my fellow lifelong learners, I hope you’ll join me to hear Ann Patchett (October 10), Julia Gruen (October 24) and Jed Perl (November 14).

MASTER LECTURE SERIES

On a personal note, our tireless board member and volunteer, Eileen DeVries, lost her battle with cancer in May. Having served on the board and several committees for more than 18 years, Eileen was a dynamic and passionate ambassador for Meijer Gardens—her enthusiasm was widespread throughout our organization. She asked great questions and was unafraid to roll up her sleeves and do the hard work of supporting our mission and leading fundraising efforts and other selfless tasks.

Eileen was a dear friend and I miss her very much.

I’ll close by calling attention to the retirement of Linda Thompson. Over her 17 years with Meijer Gardens, she led our efforts to build a dynamic education program that serves tens of thousands of guests each year. Linda’s retirement offers a fitting opportunity to express my appreciation for all the bright, talented people I’ve had the pleasure of calling colleagues and friends. Our employees commit their careers to advancing our mission of gardens, sculpture, the natural environment and the arts. It is indeed a privilege to serve alongside them.

David S. Hooker

President and CEO, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Gratefully,

HOLIDAY GIFT SHOW

Board Member, Tireless Advocate and Friend The dedication of many has helped Meijer Gardens bring a world-class guest experience to more than ten million visitors. No one personified that dedication more than Eileen DeVries, who passed away in May. CEO David Hooker fondly remembers Eileen’s enthusiasm with this story:

HONORARY CHAIRMAN Frederik Meijer (1919–2011) HONORARY MEMBER

“In 2006, at my very first board meeting as President and CEO, Eileen sat in the front row and asked the first question: ‘David, how can I help?’ Her sincerity revealed an intense desire to help Meijer Gardens fulfill its mission.”

Earl Holton

PRESIDENT AND CEO David Hooker

EX OFFICIO MEMBER, President of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation John Baab Ryan Anderson Kim Bruyn Joan Budden Linda Chamberlain Jeff Dean Jocelyn Dettloff Scott DeVecht Suzanne Eberle Joy Fossel Michael Gaudino Meg Goebel Shane Hansen Matthew Heynen Nancy Hickey Ronald Hofman Mike Jeppesen Yang Kim Jeff Lambert

Gloria Lara Elisa Lintemuth Jon March Janet Mason Mary McLoughlin Mark Miller William Padnos Doriane Parker-Sims Jim Preston Bill Schoonveld Joe Taber Edward VanDam Kathleen Vogelsang Jill Walcott Vicky Weller Daniel Williams John Zimmerman

Eileen DeVries at the 2014 Great Gardens party.

Photo by Dusty Brown.

Throughout her 18-year tenure as a board member, Eileen was a dynamic presence on various committees—horticulture, development, 10-year anniversary—and chair of our Great Gardens party. Most recently, she served on the leadership committee for the Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love capital campaign. Eileen made the world a better, happier place. We miss her and treasure her amazing legacy.

HORTICULTURE EXHIBITION

CHRYSANTHEMUMS AND MORE!

RODIN AND THE CONTEMPORARY FIGURATIVE TRADITION MASTER LECTURE SERIES

ANN PATCHETT, JULIA GREEN AND JED PERL EDUCATION ESSAY

FAMILY FUN, FROM THE INSIDE OUT SEE WHAT DEVELOPS

HONORARY MEMBER OF SCULPTURE COMMITTEE

HORTICULTURE ESSAY

A TALE OF TREES

Miner S. and Mary Ann Keeler

CHRISTMAS AND HOLIDAY TRADITIONS AROUND THE WORLD FALL FLOWERS TO WINTER WONDERLANDS

EVENTS / EXHIBITIONS / CLASSES

HOLIDAY GIFT SHOW

CONTACT Main 616-957-1580 Toll Free 888-957-1580

Cover: Photo by Dean Van Dis.

CURRENT EXHIBITIONS / ATTRACTIONS

Chrysanthemums and More!

SEPT 15—JAN 7, 2018, Rodin and the Contemporary Figurative Tradition SEPT 20—OCT 8, ArtPrize SEPT 15—OCT 29,

Autumn 2017 Volume 8, Issue 4 September 2017—November 2017 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 © 2017 Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Seasons is published four times per year for members.

Please contact membership@meijergardens.org if you prefer to receive Seasons via email. If you would like to comment on our content, please call membership at 616-977-7689.

6–7 8 – 10 11 12 – 13 14 – 15

ANNUAL EXHIBITION

EVENTS / EXHIBITIONS / CLASSES

HOURS Tuesday, 9 am–9 pm Monday–Saturday, 9 am–5 pm Sunday, 11 am–5 pm

4–5

SCULPTURE EXHIBITION

DEVELOPMENT / MEMBERSHIP

Meijer Gardens receives funding from the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.

CONTENT

BOARD of DIRECTORS

UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS / ATTRACTIONS

Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World FEB 2—APR 29, 2018, Drawn into Form: Sixty Years of Drawings and Prints by Beverly Pepper

NOV 21—JAN 7,

#MeijerGardens MeijerGardens.org

16 – 17 18 - 21 23

Photo by Peter McDaniel.

4

HORTICULTURE EXHIBITION

MEMBER HIGHLIGHTS: NEW! Botanic & Sculpture Societies Member Cocktail Party Wednesday, October 18, 6–8 pm In the spirit of keeping our activities ”always new,” we are changing the Mum Day Brunch to an Evening Cocktail party. Come celebrate Chrysanthemums and More! with us. By invitation only.

PROGRAMMING Herb & Gourd Fest Saturday and Sunday, September 9—10 Saturday, 10 am–5 pm; Sunday, 11 am–5 pm FEE: Included with admission Discover a variety of ways to use herbs and gourds in this popular fall event. Find out why cilantro and coriander, the 2017 Herb of the Year, are really the same plant! See simple techniques for starting herbs from seeds indoors, learn a variety of methods for preserving herbs, make an herbal tea bag to take home and enjoy an herbal beverage and snack. Learn all about gourds, too! View a variety of functional and decorative gourds and play instruments made from gourds. Michigan Gourd Society members even demonstrate a variety of techniques, from painting and chip carving gourds to applying coiling, weaving and more. Purchase locally grown honey, artisan soap, jams, jellies and decorated gourds, from bowls and vases to jewelry. Midwest Michigan Herb Association and Michigan Gourd Society members will answer questions all weekend long. Bring the entire family—we have a special activity just for kids!

Fall Bonsai Show September 30—October 1 Saturday, 10 am–5 pm; Sunday, 11 am–5 pm FEE: Free See a variety of bonsai, from trees in the early stages of training to lovely older trees, displayed by members from the West Michigan Bonsai Club. Watch bonsai artists at work during ongoing demonstrations and vote for your favorite tree. Shop for bonsai trees, specialty tools, unique pots, wire and more.

Fall Family Day Saturday, October 14, 1–4 pm FEE: Included with admission Visit the Children’s Garden for lots of fall family fun. Activities include something for all your senses–create press and pound color banners, listen to autumn-themed stories, make terrific tree books and go on an “eye-spy” color hunt naturalist walk.

Giant Pumpkins Saturday and Sunday, October 14 and 15 FEE: Included with admission Discover giant pumpkins at Michigan’s Farm Garden. Weighing in at hundreds of pounds, these pumpkins will amaze kids and adults alike. Enjoy a cooking demonstration (1:30 and 3 pm) that highlights the versatile use of this popular fall gourd.

Mum Day Sunday, October 15, 1–4 pm FEE: Included with admission Enjoy tours and demonstrations led by members of the horticulture department.

SHAPE & FORM

CHRYSANTHEMUMS AND MORE! September 15–October 29 Autumn takes shape in the iconic chrysanthemum. With their playfully round forms and plentiful colors and patterns, these quintessential fall blooms capture the splendor of the season.

The largest exhibition of its kind in Michigan, Chrysanthemums and More! is a celebration of the shape and form of autumn. And it only happens here at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. This year’s theme is around that very notion of shape and form.

Yet these bountiful blooms come from modest roots. The original chrysanthemum is believed to be a small, golden flower with a daisy-like shape. Only through selective breeding and specialized growing techniques have horticulturalists greatly altered its classic aesthetic. The modern mum is a highly variable flowering plant related to the dahlia, sunflower, marigold, zinnia and cosmos. At first glance, the chrysanthemum appears to bloom in single flowers but its wondrous blossoms are actually comprised of hundreds of florets. Equally intriguing, these intricate round florets are formed from two distinct shapes, ray (outer) and disk (center) florets.

As you wander the exhibition, note the repeated shapes of these bold blooms.

Thousands of florist mums, from floor-to-ceiling, create unexpectedly unusual displays, especially in the Grace Jarecki Seasonal Display Greenhouse, Earl and Donnalee Holton Victorian Garden Parlor, Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory and Bissell, Inc. Scenic Corridor. Plentiful plantings also punctuate the Grand Entry Garden and Cook Entryway.

In the Commons, feast your eyes on magnificent mum arrangements created by local florists exclusively for this exhibition—their artistry is nothing short of amazing.

Enjoy a variety of forms, including a ball, globe, daisy or even button shape, with “pompon” blooms as small as a dime to showy “spider” blooms measuring six inches or more in diameter. While mums of this magnitude are gorgeous, they’re not hearty enough to survive in the wild or garden—their stems would topple due to the weight of the flowers, and bees would have difficulty pollinating them.

Then head outdoors to enjoy hardy mums in the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden, Volunteer Tribute Garden and Streams. The smaller blooms stand up to autumn’s cooler, rainy weather. The fall harvest abounds in Michigan’s Farm Garden with circular silhouettes of apples, cabbage and heirloom vegetables. Here, the vibrancy of asters and topiaries combine with whimsical gourds and plump pumpkins to create a spectacle of shapes and hues. We hope you’ll plan a visit as your autumn takes shape.

Hallowee-ones Friday, October 20, 10 am–12 pm (Parades at 10:15 and 11:15 am) FEE: Included with admission Get creative at this special event designed for our youngest visitors. Dress your child as a sculpture, mammal, fish, insect, bird, tree, flower, geologist or any other way that highlights something about the Children’s Garden. Participate in a costume parade and listen to Halloween-themed stories. No tricks, no treats, just fun!

Chrysanthemums and More! is made possible by

The Meijer Foundation Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation Botanic and Sculpture Societies of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park HORTICULTURE EXHIBITION 5

Claire McArdle. Torso Ambrosia, 2017. Cararra marble. Photo courtesy of the artist.

6

SCULPTURE EXHIBITION

MEMBER HIGHLIGHTS: Society Preview Wednesday, September 13, 6–8 pm By invitation only. Meet ArtPrize artists and hear them talk about their work in the galleries.

Member Opening Thursday, September 14, 6–8 pm Meet some of our ArtPrize artists and listen to them discuss their work during a panel discussion led by Joseph Becherer, Meijer Gardens Chief Curator and Vice President.

Meijer Gardens’ ArtPrize Hours September 20—October 8 Monday—Saturday 9 am—8 pm Tuesday 9 am–9 pm Sunday 11 am—6 pm

PROGRAMMING The Rodin Revolution, In and Out of Context Sunday, November 5, 2 pm FEE: Included with Admission Joseph Becherer, Chief Curator and Vice President

From the age of the Renaissance until the late 19th century, the figurative tradition in sculpture remained largely uninterrupted. Then came Rodin, and tradition was dramatically changed. Learn which elements Rodin borrowed and broke from within the history of art and come to understand the many new paths he pioneered.

Outdoor Guided Sketching Fridays, October 6, OR October 20, 3:30 pm FEE: Included with Admission Anna Greidanus

Auguste Rodin is considered the father of modern sculpture for his innovative and descriptive use of the human body, particularly to express emotion.

Grab a seat and gather around one of Rodin’s best known works, Eve, located in the Sculpture Park, as an illustrator guides you in gestural drawing.

Class lasts approximately 60 minutes. RSVP to awolff@meijergardens.org or 616-974-5225.

Limited to 10 guests. Materials provided.

Rodin and the Contemporary Figurative Tradition is made possible by The Meijer Foundation

RODIN AND THE CONTEMPORARY FIGURATIVE TRADITION Friday, September 15, 2017—Sunday, January 7, 2018 ARTPRIZE: Wednesday, September 20—Sunday, October 8 Auguste Rodin (1840-1917) was among the most revolutionary figurative artists in history, and his vast influence continues today. Timed to coincide with the 100th anniversary of his death and celebrate his international recognition as the greatest sculptor of modernism, Rodin and the Contemporary Figurative Tradition features 17 contemporary sculptors whose work is in dialogue with, and perhaps even indebted to, this great French master. In addition to displaying six works by Rodin, the galleries will highlight these critically acclaimed sculptors from across the United States and Europe.

By the end of the 19th century, the tradition of sculpture was waning, having changed little since the Renaissance centuries before. As a young artist, Rodin travelled to Italy to witness the work of Renaissance masters and understand the original vigor and energy of their work. He returned to France with fresh ideas for figurative sculpture, the results of which inspire artists and audiences even now. Throughout his storied career, Rodin explored novel ideas for representing the body, even as fragments, in powerful new ways. He also sought inventive ways to narrate stories and capture ideas, as well as developed great interest in materials and how to manipulate them in bold 2017 PARTICIPATING ARTISTS terms. Several original Natalia Arbelaez Louis Marinaro works by Rodin from the Detroit Institute of Arts, Aron Demetz Claire McArdle Indianapolis Museum Liz Glynn Sarah Peters of Art, Grand Rapids Art John Hooker Katherine Stanek Museum, and the Snite Rolf Jacobsen Filippo Tagliati Museum will anchor the Sophie Kahn Emily Young exhibition.

Today, many sculptors Anders Krisár Dana Younger are looking at the work Rollin Leonard Rodrigo Lara Zendejas of Rodin through new Julia Levitina eyes. Ideas of figuration, fragmentation, portraiture, narrative and materiality have never been so broadly and inventively explored. Exclusive to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, this exhibition offers an international survey of the importance of figurative sculpture in the presence of six examples of Rodin’s finest sculptures. The work of the 17 participating artists encompass a variety of scale and numerous materials, from bronze and marble to wood and video. It is these works that are eligible for ArtPrize voting. In the galleries, sculptures will be displayed in visual conversation with original works by Rodin, including Meijer Gardens’ own cast of The Kiss.

Rodin and the Contemporary Figurative Tradition is recognized as one of the official centenary events of 2017 by the prestigious Musée Rodin, Paris and the international Rodin Centenary Commission, Centenaire: Rodin 100. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation Botanic and Sculpture Societies of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park SCULPTURE EXHIBITION

7

Photo by Heidi Ross.

AN EVENING WITH ANN PATCHETT Spend an engaging evening with acclaimed writer and literary spokesperson, Ann Patchett, as she shares insights into her noted life and work. We’re thrilled she is making Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park a stop on her autumn tour.

A graduate of the influential Sarah Lawrence College and Iowa Writer’s Workshop, Patchett has penned three works of nonfiction and seven novels, including State of Wonder: A Novel, the subject of this season’s Art and Gardens Book Group. She is the former editor of Best American Short Stories 2006 and a frequent contributor to The New York Times Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, O (Oprah Magazine) and Vogue. Her widely followed blog, Notes from Ann, features book recommendations, exclusive commentary, articles, and more.

Over her celebrated career, Patchett has earned a plethora of prestigious awards and fellowships, including the United Kingdom’s Orange Prize (now Baileys Women’s Prize for Fiction); the PEN/Faulkner Award; the Harold D. Vursell Memorial Award from the American Academy of Arts and Letters; the Book

The Master Lecture Series GREAT AUTHORS LECTURE Tuesday, October 10 at 7 pm Speaker: Ann Patchett

8

MASTER LECTURE SERIES

Sense Book of the Year; a Guggenheim Fellowship; The Chicago Tribune’s Heartland Prize; The Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts; the American Bookseller’s Association’s Most Engaging Author Award; and the Women’s National Book Association’s Award. Translated into an astounding 30 languages, her books have been New York Times bestsellers and New York Times Notable Books.

In addition to writing, Patchett owns Parnassus Books in Nashville, Tennessee. This venture inspired her to become a champion for independent booksellers and a sought-after guest on noteworthy television programs like The Colbert Report, Oprah’s Super Soul Sunday, The Martha Stewart Show and the CBS Early Show. Together with author James Patterson, Patchett was an honorary co-chair of the 2013 World Book Night and was even named one of TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2012 for her efforts to advance the literary community. Join us and see just why—following the lecture, Patchett will answer questions and sign copies of her books.

FEE: Free for members, general admission for non-members.

Space is extremely limited. Next available seating is an overflow room.

Registration required at meijergardens.org/calendar. Please direct any questions to Anna Wolff at awolff@meijergardens.org or call 616-974-5225.

Captioning service will be provided.

At left: Julia Gruen at the Keith Haring Foundation. Photo courtesy Maria Brito.

At right: Keith Haring. Julia, 1987. Photo by William J. Hebert.

AN EVENING WITH JULIA GRUEN Who better to help Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park celebrate the thirtieth anniversary of Keith Haring’s iconic Julia sculpture than its subject herself?

Join us for an unforgettable conversation with Julia Gruen, who will share her perspective on the artist’s life and work. The twelfth annual Charles Schoenknecht & Ward Paul Sculpture Lecture, An Evening with Julia Gruen, will offer a rare and intimate public appearance with this confidante and colleague of Haring, as part of a conversation with our Chief Curator and Vice President of Collections and Exhibitions, Joseph Becherer.

Born to artistic parents, Gruen was raised in the bohemian heyday of East Village in the 1960s and 1970s. Her father was a prolific writer and photographer, her mother a revered painter whose work is featured in the collection of the Whitney Museum of Art. The couple ran in social circles with some of the most prominent artists of the 20th century. As a girl, Gruen spent many summer days with Willem de Kooning, Larry Rivers, Fairfield Porter, Jasper Johns and Robert Rauschenberg at her parents’ beach parties in Water Mill, New York.

The Master Lecture Series C. SCHOENKNECHT & W. PAUL SCULPTURE LECTURE Tuesday, October 24 at 7 pm Speaker: Julia Gruen

A child dancer, Gruen devoted herself to classical ballet. Yet, after graduating high school at 16 years old, her height became a hindrance to pursuing a career as a professional ballerina. She continued to dance for personal enjoyment in the clubs of 1980s New York and found gallery work after graduating from Columbia University.

In 1984, Gruen was hired by the Tony Shafrazi Gallery to be a studio assistant for Keith Haring. Though she had never met the artist, Gruen knew of him through their shared friends–they frequented the same dance clubs. After their first meeting, the two became fast friends. Gruen remained Haring’s studio assistant, personal assistant and friend until his premature death in 1990.

After learning of his AIDS diagnosis in 1988, the artist made plans for the Keith Haring Foundation, naming Gruen as its director.

It’s a role she’s proudly played for 27 years. Under her stewardship and vision, the foundation not only preserves Haring’s public murals around the world, but also expands his legacy through exhibitions, scholarship, educational initiatives and grants serving both children in need and those affected by HIV/AIDS. Save your spot to learn more about Gruen’s fascinating life, her time with Haring and the many important contributions she’s fostered through her dedicated career.

FEE: Free for members, general admission for non-members.

Registration required at meijergardens.org/calendar. Please direct any questions to Anna Wolff at awolff@meijergardens.org or call 616-974-5225.

Captioning service will be provided.

This annual lecture is made possible by Charles Schoenknecht and Ward Paul.

MASTER LECTURE SERIES

9

Photo by Duane Michals.

CALDER: THE CONQUEST OF TIME, THE EARLY YEARS: 1898-1940 Alexander Calder was one of the most beloved and influential artists of the 20th century, transforming institutions and communities alike with his sculpture.

The inventor of the mobile (a type of kinetic sculpture constructed to take advantage of the principle of equilibrium), he captivated city plazas across the globe with his colossal stabiles—La Grande Vitesse in Grand Rapids is perhaps his most celebrated example.

For the first time, renowned author and art critic Jed Perl has put forward the definitive biography of the artist, Calder: The Conquest of Time, The Early Years: 1898-1940, slated for release this autumn. Owing to the strong bonds between Calder and the city and people of Grand Rapids, Perl is making a special stop on his national book tour to speak and answer your questions as part of the Master Lecture Series. This special event is jointly sponsored with the Grand Rapids Art Museum and the City of Grand Rapids.

Perl is among the nation’s most acclaimed writers on the visual arts. A respected critic and essayist, he is a regular contributor to The New York Review of Books. The art critic for

The Master Lecture Series SCULPTURE LECTURE Tuesday, November 14 at 7 pm Speaker: Jed Perl

10

MASTER LECTURE SERIES

The New Republic for 20 years and a contributing editor to Vogue for a decade, Perl is the recipient of a Guggenheim Fellowship.

His previous books include Magicians and Charlatans, Antoine’s Alphabet, and New Art City, which was named a New York Times Notable Book and The Atlantic Book of the Year.

For this monumental endeavor of such a captivating story, Perl had unprecedented access to Calder’s letters and papers, as well as scores of individual interviews. Beautifully written and meticulously researched, the author follows Calder’s early life among a renowned family of artists through his earliest breakthroughs in Paris between the wars. He shows us why Calder was—and remains—a barrier-breaking, avant-garde artist with mass appeal.

Following the lecture, Perl will answer questions and sign copies of Calder: The Conquest of Time, The Early Years: 1898-1940. Join us to connect with this extraordinary artistic personality and the iconic sculpture that continues to bring Grand Rapids international acclaim.

FEE: Free for members, general admission for non-members.

Registration required at meijergardens.org/calendar. Please direct any questions to Anna Wolff at awolff@meijergardens.org or call 616-974-5225.

Captioning service will be provided.

Exercise your creativity as you build your own sculpture based on Keith Haring’s Julia. Rendering by Dimension Craft.

FAMILY FUN, FROM THE INSIDE OUT

Opens September 15, 2017

Calling curious kids of all ages: Beat winter’s chill and come play with us at our newest hands-on experience: Inside/Outside: An Interactive Sculpture Experience for Families.

Imagination meets interactivity in our newest sculpture experience, Inside/Outside: An Interactive Sculpture Experience for Families.

We couldn’t be more delighted to welcome families to this engaging new space, which was intentionally designed to encourage even the youngest children to experience the connection between sculpture and horticulture. It’s four-season fun, for all ages!

Each of the eight educational stations includes a hands-on activity that underscores the main concept of the featured sculpture. Experience kinetic sculpture by moving a unique inspiration of George Rickey’s Four Open Squares Horizontal Gyratory–Tapered using your own strength as wind power.

Create representations of Joan Miró’s Woman and Bird using selected recognizable found objects and magnets to personalize your work. Turn panels to create “shape designs” á la Louise Nevelson’s Atmosphere and Environment XI. Family-friendly signage accompanies all eight stations, to explain the significance of both the sculptures and the artists themselves— including interesting tidbits about the artists as children.

One sculpture, George Segal’s Woman in Armchair, begs kids to use their imaginations as they sit in a similar armchair

and model the same body language as the figure while asking their parents to take a picture of them. Kids can then select their favorite background scene and “become” the sculpture itself.

Even the flooring in this new exhibition is interactive. As you explore the space, note the digitally-printed carpeting that includes a meandering pathway through all four seasons and dozens of hidden images. This unusual search-and-find activity will surely delight guests, from toddlers to teens. Further defining the path will be photographic panels emphasizing the horticultural setting of each sculpture. Activity cards challenge kids to partner with their parents and tackle activities inside the exhibition space and outdoors, too.

Inside/Outside: An Interactive Sculpture Experience for Families is yet another way we encourage children to bond with sculpture and foster a lifetime enjoyment of the arts. This intriguing exhibition experience will remain open until a new one replaces it in the upcoming Covenant Learning Center, which will feature permanent space dedicated to interactive family exhibitions.

Essay by Linda Thompson, Former Director of Education EDUCATION ESSAY

11

A stunning view of the conservatories over the Leslie E. Tassell English Perennial and Bulb Garden. Photo by William J. Hebert.

SEE WHAT DEVELOPS

Our Development and Membership team has been busy, busy.

Here’s what’s new and upcoming for autumn and beyond.

A Garden for the Generations With the expansion of our new campus and Welcome Center, comes the necessary relocation of some of our gardens and sculptures. This need opens up a unique opportunity to explore the design of these beloved attractions.

Of particular note is the Leslie E. Tassell English Perennial and Bulb Garden, named for one of West Michigan’s great philanthropists and Meijer Gardens ambassadors. Combining the classic English border tradition with an ever-changing mix of native North American horticulture and diverse sculpture, this charming space was generously gifted by Tassell, who shared our love of horticulture and art. “Grandpa was born in London in 1908, so it made sense for an Englishman to give the funds to build an English garden,” notes David Botrall, Tassell’s grandson. “It was one of his first and largest gifts. He was quite proud of it.”

12

DEVELOPMENT/MEMBERSHIP

As this garden is designed anew, this magnanimous family has stepped up to give it an added dimension of meaning.

The new Tassell-Wisner-Botrall English Perennial Garden will commemorate three generations. “Our family has such respect for the Meijer family—we’ve grown close over the years,” adds Botrall.

“We’re thrilled to carry on the family tradition of philanthropy by honoring my grandpa and his daughter, my mother, Joyce Wisner.

We’re grateful to keep their legacy alive by keeping our name tied to the growth of Meijer Gardens. We can’t wait to see the new garden take shape.”

It’s a sentiment every donor, member, guest and employee of Meijer Gardens shares. As you visit this autumn, take one last stroll down the winding path of this perennial garden—and one last look at it in its current state—and join us in anticipation as we watch the new garden unfold.

WELCOMING THE WORLD: HONORING A LEGACY OF LOVE The greater Grand Rapids community’s generosity continues to amaze us. We are pleased to report that, as of June 30, 2017, Meijer Gardens has raised $112.5 million against our $115.0 million goal for this historic capital campaign. We are humbled by the trust placed in us and grateful for the hundreds of members, individuals, families, foundations and organizations who have pledged their support to date.

If you haven’t already contributed, please consider joining us on this milestone journey by making a gift of your own. Gifts of all sizes will be recognized in the Garden Level of the new Welcome Center, and donations of $1,000 or more will be acknowledged on the main floor. Contact Samantha Thornton at 616-808-3609 for help in making your gift.

QUARTERLY TRIBUTES The following gifts were received between April 1 and June 30, 2017. Those honored or memorialized are shown in bold type, while the donors are in regular type.

IN HONOR

Jim Dodge

Ann E. Nugent (cont.)

Charles Beorn & Karen Coleman Laura Klooster

Linda Dodge

John Ritchie

Jacquie Wilson

Deborah & Walter Shorter

Fisher Family

Cheryl Owens

Sandy Fischer

Paul & Heidemarie Becher

Bryan Figureoa Wayne & Shelley VanderKolk Ping & Tim Liang Ian Kurt Rosen David & Anne-Lise Whitescarver

IN MEMORY Elizabeth Adams David Adams Bishop Family Sandy Fischer Margaret Carlson Larry & Lois Mawby Photo by Michael Cook, Stellafly Social Media.

Nancy Mulder Susan Cooper Parson's Walk Association

SAVE THE DATE: CHRISTMAS CABARET Make plans to join us on Thursday, December 7, 2017 for the annual Meijer Gardens Christmas Cabaret.

In addition to enjoying our Christmas And Holiday Traditions Around the World exhibition, this year’s holiday gala features entertainment from The Verve Pipe lead singer, Brian Vander Ark, and his wife, Lux (shown above). This talented duo will perform songs from their holiday album, Wonderland, along with traditional seasonal favorites. Rounding out the festivities is a cocktail party, sit-down dinner and time spent with friends new and old.

Tickets are $150 each, and table sponsorships are available from $2,500. For details or to reserve your spot, please contact Anne Benson at abenson@ meijergardens.org or 616-975-3177. We look forward to celebrating the season with you!

Eileen DeVries April Beyer Jackie DelRaso & Dennis Wooldridge

Shellee Hubbard Bel-Air Condominium Association Dan & Judy Brechting

Jeff & Carin Johnston Dennis & Janice Montrella James & Marsha Rose Richard & Bette Tompkins

The University of Toledo Nucraft Furniture Company Foundation Trudy & Richard Weber Maureen Jakobcic Amanda Jacobs David Koski Baker Holtz PC Shirley LaSage Roxanne Gurevich Jeffrey Karr

Beverly Scherphorn Geraldine Zech Sheri Shoup Ann & Jim Wunderly Janet Thering Ruth Allerton Leslie Kohn

Kathy Karr

Miles Van Dalson

Kent Garden Club

Robin & Jason Van Dalson

Susan McManaway Lena Meijer

Glenn Vandersloot

Barbara Murphy

Nathan Moore

Ann E. Nugent

Ian Warnock, Sr.

Sherry & Brad Blair Louise Curry

Nancy Devon & Ken Hinton

Frederick & Laurie Gregg

Landscape Design Services, Inc.

Gerald & Marjorie LaBreck

Tazzia Lawn Care

Richard Meese

Carlton & Mary Ferguson Lena Meijer

Corrine Lemberg

THE GIFT OF MEMBERSHIP Searching for the perfect gift?

Consider a Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park annual membership—we promise something for everyone, all year long! Gift memberships purchased by December 8 will be mailed by December 15. Call the Membership Office at 616-977-7689 to purchase over the phone.

DEVELOPMENT/MEMBERSHIP

13

A TALE OF TREES Over the last 22 years, our gardens have undergone a metamorphosis of landscape.

Perhaps nothing tells the story of this transformation better than the trees.

In April 1995, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park opened its doors. Those first guests marveled at our 70 acres as they experienced the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory, strolled the Frey Boardwalk, explored the Wege Nature Trail and enjoyed the sculptures Fred Meijer had collected and donated to Meijer Gardens.

Little did they know that, 22 years later, our gardens would have grown to encompass a dual mission of horticulture and sculpture. What was once a mix of abandoned orchard, rolling pasture, woods and wetlands has transformed into 158 acres of diverse gardens and natural spaces. Many of these changes are documented through trees.

Meijer Gardens began with a modest diversity. Once ailing stands of elm and ash are now a bountiful collection.

Hundreds more trees have been planted, creating one of the most metamorphic elements of our grounds. From a distance, these trees propose a framework of texture and pattern, building intrigue for what’s beyond. Close up, they punctuate the landscape with their singular beauty, offering a separation of space, as well as shade, wind protection and a habitat for animals, birds and insects.

Trees will continue to define new spaces as we embark on our Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love building project. Some existing trees will be moved and many more will be planted. Late fall or early spring is the optimal time for this labor—as a well-respected nurseryman once recommended, trees should always be planted in months with an “R”. As trees go dormant, their leaves drop but their roots stay active and grow.

Autumn’s cool temperatures are much less stressful on trees than summer’s extreme heat, and late fall rains help trees and shrubs establish heartier root systems. When the air is cooler than the soil, new root growth is encouraged, resulting in a stronger root system for the next spring’s growth—a concept that’s especially important when moving established trees.

14

HORTICULTURE ESSAY

Relocating trees happens by the use of a mechanical spade or hand digging. It’s important to note that tree roots are not very deep relative to the height of the tree. Think of a tree unearthed by strong winds—its root system resembles a pancake, wide and shallow. When determining the size of the root ball to be excavated, a good starting measurement is one foot in width for each inch of trunk circumference. However, this can vary greatly by type of tree, time of year and soil structure.

Moving trees with a mechanical spade has become our standard—the largest truck-mounted spade ever used at Meijer Gardens measured 90" across! In favorable conditions, the mechanical spade accommodates a tree with a trunk up to 8" in diameter. Examples of majestic trees moved this way include the large American larch along the entry drive and the rare-this-farnorth mimosa in the lower falls of the Sculpture Park.

Hand digging is much more labor intensive, but also provides options for trees too large or inaccessible for a truck-mounted spade. The process starts with digging a wide trench around the tree at the appropriate distance from the trunk. The exposed root ball is then wrapped in burlap and laced tightly with rope or heavy twine. An especially large tree will often have a timberframed box built around its roots for stability. The tree is then carefully rocked back and forth while soil is back-filled to raise it out of the ground. The weeping white pine at The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden’s Cherry Tree Promenade entrance (at right) is a successful example of a tree relocated by hand digging.

The upcoming new construction opens up opportunities to move special existing trees and plant many more to shape our changing landscape. As the Chinese proverb states, “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.” I’m happy to say we’ve covered both.

Essay by Steve LaWarre, Director of Horticulture

Labor intensive hand digging is used to move large or inaccessible trees.

This weeping white pine found a new home at the entrance of The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden. Photo by Tom VerHage.

HORTICULTURE ESSAY

15

Gaze upon the beauty of the trees as they reflect peacefully in the water.

The holiday season also evokes these moments of reflection. Photo by Peter McDaniel.

16

ANNUAL EXHIBITION

MEMBER HIGHLIGHTS: Christmas Cabaret December 7, 6 pm–10 pm

Member Holiday Parties Party with Tree Lighting Ceremony, November 20, 6–8 pm Family Parties with Santa and Mrs. Claus November 26; December 3, 11 & 17, 6-8 pm Adult Party (18 and over) with cash bar November 27, 6-8 pm RSVP at 616-974-5222 or rsvp@meijergardens.org

EXTENDED HOLIDAY HOURS Entire facility is open until 9 pm December 18—23, and December 26—30 PLEASE NOTE: Meijer Gardens is CLOSED on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day

Santa Visits November 21 and 28, December 5, 12, and 19, 5–8 pm The Original Dickens Carolers November 21 and 28, December 5, 12, and 19, 6–8 pm Winter-Time Walks November 21–January 6, 2018 Tuesdays, 10:15 am and 11:15 am and Saturdays, 11:15 am Fee: Included with admission Winter in the Children’s Garden can be chilly, but fun!

Bundle up and join us on an outdoor interactive discovery walk to investigate the Children’s Garden in new ways. Then gather by the hearth in the log cabin to learn about winter with stories and kid-friendly conversation.

Rooftop Reindeer November 25, December 2, 9, 16, 23, 1–4 pm

Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World is made possible by

The Meijer Foundation Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation Botanic and Sculpture Societies of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Railway Garden is sponsored by

REFLECTION

CHRISTMAS AND HOLIDAY TRADITIONS AROUND THE WORLD November 21, 2017–January 7, 2018 It’s the season of reflection. Forget the hustle and bustle and find your calm in our winter wonderland—it’s an idyllic spot to center your thoughts on the true meaning of the holidays.

The holiday season seems to go out as quickly as it comes in. This year, be mindful of this passage of precious time by slowing down and surrounding yourself with the quiet beauty of Christmas & Holiday Traditions Around the World. The warmth and wonder of our shimmering lights and time-honored traditions will surely bring comfort and joy to you and your loved ones. This year’s theme of “reflection” can be both seen in the magnificent displays of reflective objects, and felt as we look back at the past year.

What began with 20 displays is now, an incredible 23 years later, an event of grand scale. This year’s exhibition features 42 displays including sparkling evergreens and cherished rituals from past and present. Immerse yourself in the warm embrace of the Bissell Inc. Scenic Corridor, aglow with thousands of lights and touches of metallic and reflective mirrors. Be mindful of the artfully adorned trees, whimsical folklore and meaningful cultural celebrations. Rituals like lighting candles, displaying symbolic objects and gathering to cook special foods are common threads woven into a global tapestry of families gathering to honor ancestors, show gratitude and embrace the season. Go inward and reflect on how your traditions fit into this worldwide celebration.

Escape into the beloved Railway Garden, a miniature yet magical world made from nature’s bounty. Look closely to marvel at the artistry of each iconic structure honoring an historic landmark near or far. Follow the train as it winds through the Jarecki Seasonal Display Garden and adjacent greenhouses. Other points of interest include the Holton Victorian Garden Parlor and its quaintly authentic Victorian Christmas tree and the 14' Moravian Star, which lights the waterfall in the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory.

Outside is equally deserving of your attention. Bundle up and discover the beauty of nature with a wintertime walk through our glistening wonderland illuminated by more than 300,000 lights—how elegantly they highlight nature’s beauty! This serene setting is ideal for reflecting on a season of family and fellowship, gratitude and peace.

Feeling especially festive? Join us for the Christmas Cabaret Holiday Gala or one of our six Member Holiday Parties. Usher in the season with a special tree lighting ceremony at the first member party. Original Dickens Carolers and Santa Claus and his reindeer may make an appearance, and we’ll even treat your family to seasonal goodies, kid’s art activities, and live entertainment. Make plans to make this holiday season your most memorable yet.

ANNUAL EXHIBITION

17

EVENTS

Photo by Peter McDaniel.

HOURS Tuesday, 9 am–9 pm Monday–Saturday, 9 am–5 pm Sunday, 11 am–5 pm

Photo by Dean Van Dis.

PLANT SHOWS

KIDS’ TRAM

August 26 and 27 Saturday Noon—5 pm, Sunday 11 am—5 pm

Saturdays, September 23–October 21, 10:45 am, 11:45 am, 1:45 pm, 2:45 pm

DAHLIA SHOW— WEST MICHIGAN DAHLIA

FEE: $4 adults, $2 kids Board the Kids’ Tram for an engaging experience all about trees. Travel through the Sculpture Park, visit The Groves and come away with a new understanding of Michigan trees. Hop on and off at specific stops to participate in these kid-friendly activities: • Learn which trees are used to make baseball Note: The kids’ tram may experience bats, musical instruments and Popsicle sticks. temporary interruptions in service due • Use puppets to identify the creatures that to the construction associated with live in trees.

Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy • Learn why leaves change color. of Love. Check at the Information Desk • Have fun exploring sculptures that have a during your visit to confirm up-to-date connection to trees. kids’ tram times.

SOCIETY

FEE: Free Marvel at the variety of colors, shapes and sizes of dahlia flowers. Discover colors so bright they seem to glow, find a flower the size of a dinner plate, and a pompon dahlia that forms a perfect sphere. View creative floral arrangements as well. Dahlia Society members will be on hand to answer questions and provide tips on how to grow these beautiful flowers.

TREE-MENDOUS TREES KIDS’ TRAM TOURS

Sunday, October 1 1–2 pm

JAPANESE MUSICAL PERFORMANCE THE MAPLE LEAF GROUP

September 30—October 1 Saturday, 10 am–5 pm; Sunday, 11 am–5 pm

FALL BONSAI SHOW

FEE: Free See a variety of bonsai, from trees in the early stages of training to lovely older trees, displayed by members from the West Michigan Bonsai Club. Watch bonsai artists at work during ongoing demonstrations and vote for your favorite tree. Shop for bonsai trees, specialty tools, unique pots, wire and more.

18

CONTACT Main 616-957-1580 Toll free 888-957-1580 MeijerGardens.org

EVENTS

FEE: Free for members; $14.50 non-members Enjoy a rare opportunity to experience a special musical performance by The Maple Leaf Group, traditional Japanese musicians from Fukuoka, Japan. Learn about their instruments and music, and then enjoy watching Ms. Tachikawa lead her students as they play the koto (Japanese harp), Shakuhachi flutes, a three stringed Shamisen and a Shinobue flute. The performance includes traditional Japanese music as well as American movie soundtracks.

Space is limited. Registration is required at meijergardens.org/calendar.

QUARTERLY BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP October 3 Tuesday, 1–2:30 pm

READ & EXPLORE: ART AND GARDENS BOOK GROUP

FEE: Included with admission Join us as we discuss bestselling author Ann Patchett’s State of Wonder: A Novel.

Described as “a provocative and assured novel of morality and miracles, science and sacrifice set in the Amazon rainforest,” this novel is sure to lead to wide-ranging and lively discussion.

Limited to 20 adults.

RSVP to 616-975-3144 or skilroy@meijergardens.org.

2017 LOESCHNER ART COMPETITION The annual Ray and Nancy Loeschner Art Competition is open to all artists working in a two-dimensional format. Applications are available at MeijerGardens.org.

Deadline is Friday, October 27, 2017.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Withdraw from a class at least 30 days in advance, a refund is issued minus a $5 processing fee. Withdraw 7 to 29 days in advance and receive a 50% refund. Less than 7 days, no refund.

Call 616-975-3147 for class cancellations due to severe weather.

EVENTS THE RICHARD & HELEN DEVOS JAPANESE GARDEN SUNDAYS: September 17, October 22, 1–4 pm, Weather Permitting

INSIDE THE JAPANESE TEAHOUSE

FEE: Included with admission Experience the tranquil ambience and exquisite architecture of our authentic Japanese Teahouse. Take special note of the master carpentry, contrasting woods, patterns and textures and numerous distinctive details. This opportunity is included with admission on a first-come, first-served basis, weather permitting.

Guests will be asked to remove their shoes (so please plan accordingly).

MICHIGAN’S FARM GARDEN Saturday and Sunday, September 9–10, 1-4 pm

Saturday and Sunday, October 14–15, 1-4 pm

HEIRLOOM TOMATOES

GIANT PUMPKINS

FEE: Included with admission Join us for a flavorful weekend focused on heirloom tomatoes. Watch a cooking demonstration and learn why tomatoes are a healthy choice and how to best enjoy them. Participate in family activities like the tomato relay or terrific tomato toss. Sample many different tomato varieties and be sure to vote for your top tomato.

FEE: Included with admission Discover giant pumpkins at Michigan’s Farm Garden. Weighing in at hundreds of pounds, these pumpkins will amaze kids and adults alike. Enjoy a cooking demonstration (1:30 and 3 pm) that highlights the versatile use of this popular fall gourd.

November 21, 2017–January 6, 2018 Tuesdays 10:15 and 11:15 am Saturdays 11:15 am

September 9–10 Saturday, 10 am–5 pm; Sunday, 11 am–5 pm

WINTER-TIME WALKS

HERB & GOURD FEST

FEE: Included with admission Discover a variety of ways to use herbs and gourds in this popular fall event. Find out why cilantro and coriander, the 2017 Herb of the Year, are really the same plant! See simple techniques for starting herbs from seeds indoors, learn a variety of methods for preserving herbs, make an herbal tea bag to take home and enjoy an herbal beverage and snack. Learn all about gourds, too! View a variety of functional and decorative gourds and play instruments made from gourds. Michigan Gourd Society members even demonstrate a variety of techniques, from painting and chip carving gourds to applying coiling, weaving and more. Purchase locally grown honey, artisan soap, jams, jellies and decorated gourds, from bowls and vases to jewelry.

Midwest Michigan Herb Association and Michigan Gourd Society members will even answer all your questions all weekend long. Bring the entire family—we have a special activity just for kids!

Photo by Dean Van Dis.

FEE: Included with admission Winter in the Children’s Garden can be chilly but fun! Bundle up and join us on an outdoor discovery walk to investigate this interactive garden in new ways. Then gather by the hearth in the log cabin to learn about winter with stories and kid-friendly conversation.

Saturday, November 4 9 am–5 pm

HOLIDAY GIFT SHOW

Photo by Dean Van Dis.

FEE: Free admission to the show Get your gift on at Meijer Gardens! Members and the public alike are welcome. This highly anticipated annual event attracts shoppers regionally, so shop early for the best selection.

We’ll even treat you to free gift-wrapping. Members receive a 10% discount on their purchases.

EVENTS

19

EVENTS AND EXHIBITIONS FALL BUS TRIP

September 15—January 7, 2018

RODIN AND THE CONTEMPORARY FIGURATIVE TRADITION

Tuesday, October 3, 7 am–8:30 pm

(ArtPrize: Wednesday, September 20 —Sunday, October 8)

HISTORIC OAK PARK: FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT AND PRAIRIE ARCHITECTURE

FEE: $140 members, $160 non-members Immerse yourself in Oak Park, Illinois, a neighborhood with the world’s largest concentration of Frank Lloyd Wright homes.

En route to Chicago, learn the importance and influence of the architecture of FLW. Start your day with a guided tour of the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio. This cultural gem will delight you with its art-glass windows, breathtaking murals, and iconic furniture.

Afterward, enjoy a walking tour on your own, map included, of nearby magnificent FLW structures, many of which are still private residences. After your walk, relax over lunch at the delightful Winberie’s. Our last stop is Pleasant Home, an important early Prairiestyle mansion built in 1897. Inside this national landmark, you’ll discover arts and crafts tiles, leaded glass windows, and impressive woodwork. Guests will need to navigate stairs and be able to stand for about one hour.

Fee includes transportation, a snack and boxed dinner on the bus, guided tours, map, lunch, and all gratuities. Register at MeijerGardens.org/calendar or call 616-975-3184 or 616-975-3147.

Auguste Rodin (1840–1917) was among the most revolutionary figurative artists in history.

Coinciding with the centenary of his death and his universal recognition as the most avant-garde sculptor of his age, this exhibition examines his relevance and vibrancy among Contemporary figurative sculptors. The exhibition will feature loans of Rodin’s artwork as well as artwork from current figurative sculptors.

September 15—October 29

CHRYSANTHEMUMS AND MORE! See page 5 of Seasons for details.

PROGRAMMING HERB & GOURD FEST SEPTEMBER 9–10 SATURDAY, 10 AM–5 PM; SUNDAY, 11 AM–5 PM FEE: Included with admission. See page 5.

FALL BONSAI SHOW SEPTEMBER 30—OCTOBER 1 SATURDAY, 10 AM–5 PM; SUNDAY, 11 AM–5 PM FEE: Free. See page 5.

FALL FAMILY DAY SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14, 1–4 PM

FEE: Included with admission. See page 5.

GIANT PUMPKINS SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, OCTOBER 14 AND 15

FEE: Included with admission. See page 5.

MUM DAY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15, 1–4 PM Photo by Tim Long.

PROGRAMMING THE RODIN REVOLUTION, IN AND OUT OF CONTEXT Sunday, November 5, 2 pm

FEE: Included with admission Joseph Becherer, Chief Curator and Vice President From the age of the Renaissance until the late 19th century, the figurative tradition in sculpture remained largely uninterrupted. Then came Rodin, and tradition was dramatically changed. Learn which elements Rodin borrowed and broke from within the history of art and come to understand the many new paths he pioneered.

OUTDOOR GUIDED SKETCHING

Fridays, October 6 OR 20, 3:30 pm Anna Greidanus FEE: Included with admission Auguste Rodin is considered the father of modern sculpture for his innovative and descriptive use of the human body, particularly to express emotion.

Grab a seat and gather around one of Rodin’s best known works, Eve, located in the Sculpture Park, as an illustrator guides you in gestural drawing.

Class lasts approximately 60 mins. RSVP to awolff@meijergardens.org or 616-974-5225.

Limited to 10 guests. Materials provided.

FEE: Included with admission. See page 5.

HALLOWEE-ONES FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 10 AM–12 PM

FEE: Included with admission. See page 5.

BALK TASTE OF THE GARDENS CAFÉ

CANCELLATION POLICY

Withdraw from a class at least 30 days in advance, a refund is issued minus a $5 processing fee. Withdraw 7 to 29 days in advance and receive a 50% refund. Less than 7 days, no refund.

Call 616-975-3147 for class cancellations due to severe weather.

20

EVENTS AND EXHIBITIONS

Come celebrate seasonal change with Taste of the Gardens Café. Enjoy the fall colors, a new autumn menu and some old favorites. On September 25th, our new fall menu will be unveiled featuring some fabulous locally sourced seasonal products along with Michigan craft beers. Our selection will include seasonal brews from all over the Great Lakes State.

Come savor a taste of the café Mon.–Sat. 9 am–5 pm, Sunday 11 am–5 pm or late Tuesday nights till 9 pm.

Emily Young. Dark Forest Head I, 2013. Photo by Angelo Plantamura.

Courtesy of Bowman Sculpture.

CL ASSES

Scholarship assistance is available. Call 616-975-3184 or 616-975-3147.

REGISTER ONLINE AT MEIJERGARDENS.ORG/CALENDAR E-mail classes@meijergardens.org to ask questions. Pre-registration and pre-payment required.

Non-member class fees include admission to Meijer Gardens for class participants on the day of the class.

Fee for extra participant in Child/Adult pairs classes: $17.50 each member, $21.50 each non-member.

Saturday, September 23 (Adult) 10–11:30 am

THE BEST SPRING-FLOWERING BULBS FOR EVERY GARDEN*

Tuesday, September 12 (Adult) 6–8 pm

DAZZLING FUSED-GLASS JEWELRY

INSTRUCTOR: Gloria Badiner FEE: $75 members, $83 non-members Construct your choice of pins, earrings, pendants, tie tacks and cufflinks at this hands-on workshop.

Lightweight, fusible art glass, including a wide variety of colored glass, dichroic glass, stringers, frit and dots will be available for easy design work. Learn the proper use of tools, grinders and accessory products, as well as how to cut and shape glass. All materials, tools and findings for finishing your projects are included. Students usually complete 6-12 finished pieces.

Saturday, September 16 (Adult) 9–10 am

YOGA IN THE SCULPTURE PARK

INSTRUCTOR: Dean Jeffery FEE: $6.50 members, $14.50 non-members Join us for an unforgettable morning of outdoor yoga with well-known instructor Dean Jeffery.

Gather around Neuron by Roxy Paine and participate in 60 minutes of guided meditation, breath work and an active yoga practice guaranteed to leave you feeling refreshed and grounded. Open to all levels and ages.

Bring a yoga mat, sweatshirt and water bottle.

Pre-registration only.

Monday, September 18 (Adult) 6–7:30 pm

CREATE A HYPERTUFA PLANTER

INSTRUCTOR: Ian Warnock FEE: $45 members, $53 non-members Create a 12-inch hypertufa container, inspired by old stone troughs in England. Begin by creating a mold out of sand and then applying a mixture of cement, peat moss and perlite. Learn how to cure the container and when to plant it. Wear clothing that can get dirty. Materials provided.

INSTRUCTOR: Bill Bird FEE: $25 members, $33 non-members Be inspired by the breathtaking beauty of Keukenhof, a flower garden in the Netherlands that features seven million spring bulbs displayed in stunning patterns, colors and combinations.

Learn how to adapt these ideas to create beautiful combinations on a smaller scale at home. Discover how to naturalize bulbs for a less formal look, as well as how to identify bulbs that will come back year after year. Master tips on how to plant bulbs, protect them from critters and care for them after they bloom. You will even receive a few of the instructor’s favorite bulbs to try at home.

Saturday, September 23 (Adult) Noon–2 pm

SAVING THE SEASONS: DEHYDRATING

INSTRUCTOR: Elizabeth Pitzer FEE: $35 members, $43 non-members Learn the proper techniques and equipment used in food drying. From fruit leather to kale chips, pâté to soups, sample an array of delicacies made from dehydrated products. Find out which Michigan fruits and vegetables dry and store best to enhance all your dishes and save you money.

Samples and recipes are included.

Thursday, September 28 (Adult) 6–8 pm

INCREDIBLE EDIBLE SPROUTS

INSTRUCTOR: Sue Stauffacher FEE: $35 members, $43 non-members Sprouting is an excellent way to add nutrition, variety and flavor to your snacks and meals.

Learn the best methods to sprout a variety of seeds, including beans, lentils, alfalfa and wheat.

Then discover how versatile sprouts are, from snacking on them raw to incorporating them in smoothies and your favorite recipes to making breads and crackers. Sample a variety of sprouts and find your favorites.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Withdraw from a class at least 30 days in advance, a refund is issued minus a $5 processing fee. Withdraw 7 to 29 days in advance and receive a 50% refund. Less than 7 days, no refund.

Call 616-975-3147 for class cancellations due to severe weather.

*

( ) Applies toward MSU Extension

Master Gardener education credit.

PHOTOGRAPHY CLASSES Full class descriptions for all photography classes available online at MeijerGardens.org/calendar

Saturday, September 30 (Adult) 9–11 am

FALL PHOTOGRAPHY

INSTRUCTOR: Dianne Carroll Burdick FEE: $35 members, $43 non-members Bring a camera and dress for the weather.

Thursday, October 5 (Adult) 4–5:30 pm

IPHONE PHOTOGRAPHY PART I

INSTRUCTOR: Terry Johnston FEE: $30 members, $38 non-members Bring an iPhone and dress for the weather.

Thursday, October 5 (Adult) 6–7:30 pm

IPHONE PHOTOGRAPHY PART II INSTRUCTOR: Terry Johnston FEE: $30 members, $38 non-members Bring an iPhone. Pre-requisite: complete iPhone Photography Part 1.

Saturday, October 7 (Adult) 7:30 am–10:30 am

BLACK AND WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY INSTRUCTOR: Dusty Brown FEE: $45 members, $53 non-members Tripod recommended but not required.

Dress for the weather.

Saturday, October 14 (Adult) 10–11:30 am

PHOTOGRAPHING WILD BIRDS

INSTRUCTOR: Ed Post FEE: $30 members, $38 non-members Bring a camera and dress for the weather.

Tuesday, December 5 (Adult) 6–8 pm

PHOTOGRAPHING HOLIDAY LIGHTS INSTRUCTOR: Cory Olsen FEE: $35 members, $43 non-members Bring a camera and dress for the weather.

CLASSES

21

CL ASSES

REGISTER ONLINE AT MEIJERGARDENS.ORG/CALENDAR E-mail classes@meijergardens.org to ask questions. Pre-registration and pre-payment required.

Non-member class fees include admission to Meijer Gardens for class participants on the day of the class.

Fee for extra participant in Child/Adult pairs classes: $17.50 each member, $21.50 each non-member.

Saturday, October 7 (Adult) 12–2:30 pm

Monday, October 23 (Adult) 5–7:30 pm

Tuesday, November 14 (Adult) 5–7:30 pm

FORMING THE TEA BOWL: A HANDS-ON INSTRUCTION

AUTUMN PASTELS

BEGINNING WATERCOLOR

INSTRUCTOR: Anna Greidanus FEE: $60 members, $68 non-members This workshop will engage participants in hand building tea bowls from stoneware clay using primarily pinch and coil techniques. Look inside our teahouse and handle several Japanese tea bowls for inspiration. After you complete your tea bowl it will be fired and glazed. Participants can collect their tea bowls within two weeks.

No prior ceramics experience is required.

Monday, October 16 (Adult) 6–7:30 pm

PREPARE YOUR GARDEN FOR WINTER

INSTRUCTOR: Greg Dunn FEE: $25 members, $33 non-members Take steps now to save time in the spring.

Discover which perennials to cut back and which to plant in autumn. Learn how to fertilize for fall and protect your shrubs for winter. Take home a checklist to help you get started.

Saturday, October 21 (Ages 4–5 with Adult) 10–11:30 am

FALL FARM FUN

FEE: $35 member pairs, $43 non-member pairs Discover pumpkins and more pumpkins! Start with a scavenger hunt in our pumpkin patch to look for pumpkins that are bumpy, small, flat, tall and even different colors! Enjoy a story about how pumpkins grow, play fun games like pumpkin ring toss and bowling, and use natural materials to decorate a small pumpkin to take home.

Saturday, October 21 (Adult) 10 am–1 pm

INTRO TO ART JOURNALING: WHERE COLOR AND WORDS COLLIDE

INSTRUCTOR: Katie Reitemeier FEE: $45 members, $53 non-members Art journaling is the perfect outlet for relaxed colorful expression. Part scrapbook, part diary, it’s a stress-free way to play with color while capturing words and memories you treasure, all in one place. Receive a 9”x 12” art journal and use sprays, stencils, sponging, transfers, oil pastels, artist inks and more to create backgrounds for your journaling. No prior experience is required.

22

Scholarship assistance is available.

Call 616-975-3184 or 616-975-3147.

CLASSES

INSTRUCTOR: Kathleen Kalinowski FEE: $45 members, $53 non-members Begin with a mini-lesson about how to layer chalk pastels, then choose from several small still lifes that include the splendors of autumn-flowers, fruits and berries. Create a small chalk pastel drawing suitable for framing. Materials provided.

Thursday, November 2 (Age 3 with an Adult) 10–11:30 am

GRANDMA AND ME: PLANT AN AMAZING AMARYLLIS

FEE: $35 member pairs, $43 non-member pairs Learn all about bulbs! Touch bumpy and smooth bulbs, hold bulbs that are heavy and some that are light, and compare big bulbs with tiny bulbs.

Then cut open a bulb and discover what’s hidden inside. Create a fun art project inspired by bulbs and participate in songs and fingerplays. Even decorate a pot and plant an amazing amaryllis to take home–it will be in full bloom by the holidays!

Tuesday, November 7 (Adult) 6–8 pm

INSTRUCTOR: Nancy Hart FEE: $45 members, $53 non-members Work from a photograph as you discover the delightful art of watercolor. Learn how to create a strong composition by using positive and negative space, as well as brush techniques, textures and choosing the correct type of paper. Bring a colored photo from home for reference.

Thursday, November 16 (Adult) 4–6 pm

AUTUMN FLORAL ARRANGEMENT

INSTRUCTOR: Mandi Stade FEE: $45 members, $53 non-members Make an autumn arrangement, and get ideas that will help you any time of year. First, watch a demonstration of how to use the elements of design to create a simple, but lovely, arrangement. Learn the mechanics of arranging a variety of materials and find out the tools and tricks of the trade. Then make your own arrangement using chrysanthemums, succulents, and more.

SAVORY HARVEST SOUPS: PLANT-BASED Tuesday, November 21 (Adult) INSTRUCTOR: Sue Stauffacher FEE: $35 members, $43 non-members Find out how to turn nature’s bounty into comforting and easy-to-make soups all winter long. Learn the components of great soups and how to build flavor, from base to garnish.

Tasting samples and recipes are provided.

Saturday, November 11 (Ages 5-10 with Adult) 10–11:30 am OR 1–2:30 pm

GRANDMA AND ME: CINNAMON ROLLS

FEE: $35 member pairs, $43 non-member pairs Discover the origin of cinnamon and sugar, then work in pairs to whip up a batch of cinnamon rolls using an easy, no fail recipe and simple ingredients. Take home your batch to bake later or freeze and bake for the holidays. Tasting samples and recipe are provided.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Withdraw from a class at least 30 days in advance, a refund is issued minus a $5 processing fee. Withdraw 7 to 29 days in advance and receive a 50% refund. Less than 7 days, no refund.

Call 616-975-3147 for class cancellations due to severe weather.

4–5:30 pm

HERBAL ADVENT WREATH

INSTRUCTOR: Connie Hanson FEE: $45 members, $53 non-members Create a beautiful Advent wreath using a variety of natural materials. Learn the meaning behind Advent candles and the herbal symbolism of the wreath. Bring clippers and four candles.

Saturday, December 2 (Ages 8+ with Adult) 10–11:30 am

GRANDMA AND ME: DECORATE A PUTZ HOUSE WITH NATURAL MATERIALS

FEE: $35 member pairs, $43 non-member pairs Visit the Railway Garden and be inspired by artist Paul Busse’s creative use of natural materials. Look for replicas of more than 30 Grand Rapids landmarks like the Ada Covered Bridge, Fifth Third Ballpark and Voigt House, as well as some famous buildings from around the world. Then work together using materials to decorate a small paper mâché house.

HOLIDAY GIFT SHOW Saturday, November 4 9 am–5 pm

Members and public welcome. Free admission to show.

Members receive a 10% discount when presenting their membership cards.

It’s never too early to get your gift on—and there’s no better place than our Holiday Gift Show.

Make your list and make plans to shop with us.

Welcome to the shopping extravaganza for everyone on your list. From traditional to edgy, unique to unusual, elegant to edible, the Holiday Gift Show is brimming with possibilities for conjuring your most creative gifting.

We’ve outdone ourselves this year, with a sensationally eclectic mix of gifts from local and regional artists, craftsman, authors and vendors—enough to fill the Grand Room! Our curated collection of limited edition home décor, jewelry, books, music, toys, culinary wares, edibles and wines is sure to please all ages and aficionados. As always, the wrapping is on us, and we’re even tempting shoppers throughout the day with prize drawings for fun, giftable giveaways!

Wine is back by popular demand— this year, with TASTING! For the foodies, we’ve expanded our selection of consumable gifts, from popcorn and candies to bottled wines and wine accessories. And by popular demand, we’ve added afternoon wine tastings. Book lovers will delight at the opportunity to meet select authors, who will be on hand to sign book purchases.

Need more inspiration? Product reps will happily answer questions and offer expert advice on finding the perfect gifts.

Haven’t shopped our Holiday Gift Show before?

Heed our advice to arrive sooner rather than later.

This annual one-day event draws more and more shoppers every year, so bring your list, let us gift wrap your purchases, then grab a bite to eat at the Balk Taste of the Gardens Café. As always, entry to the show is complementary and members enjoy a 10% discount. Holiday Gift Show sales support Meijer Gardens. We look forward to spoiling you.

HOLIDAY GIFT SHOW

23

Beverly Pepper. Untitled, 1953. Ink on paper.

Photo by Chuck Heiney.

Beverly Pepper. Untitled, n.d. Ink and watercolor on paper. Photo by Chuck Heiney.

Drawn Into Form: Sixty Years of Drawings and Prints by Beverly Pepper Friday, February 2—Sunday, April 29, 2018

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation Botanic and Sculpture Societies of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

24 17-336

HORTICULTURE EXHIBITION

AUTUMN 2017 Volume 8, Issue 4

The Meijer Foundation

Would you prefer to receive Seasons via email?

Drawn Into Form: Sixty Years of Drawings and Prints by Beverly Pepper is made possible by

If so, please contact the Development/Membership Office at 616-977-7689 or membership@meijergardens.org.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is honored to premiere a collection of 70 works from American sculptor Beverly Pepper from approximately the early 1950s through present day. From sketches capturing scenes of everyday life and landscape views to abstract explorations of space and form to technical drawings and independent prints, the exhibition will evidence one of the most profound artistic careers in recent memory.

Born in 1922, Pepper is among the most prodigious and prolific sculptors in Contemporary art and a pioneering female force in the visual arts. Her career spans more than six decades and her work is found in many of the world’s most important public and private collections, including a significant number of civic and government plazas and courtyards across the United States and Europe.

In addition to her sculptural endeavors, Pepper has quietly developed an extraordinarily vast and dynamic repertoire of drawings and prints. Despite the renown of her sculpture, including those at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, her two-dimensional oeuvre is less well known.

Timed to coincide with her 95th birthday, the ever-active artist has gifted her entire body of graphic work to Meijer Gardens. Nearly 900 objects, including drawings, sketchbooks, prints and some models have been given, creating one of the most important resources for graphic work related to Contemporary sculpture anywhere in the world. Drawn Into Form: Sixty Years of Drawings and Prints by Beverly Pepper will premiere nearly 70 works from this exceptional gift.

1000 East Beltline Avenue NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525

FEB 2–APR 29

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park promotes the enjoyment, understanding and appreciation of gardens, sculpture, the natural environment and the arts.

UPCOMING