Seasons - Winter 2019-20 {Vol. 11 Issue 1}

ANNUAL EXHIBITION

SCULPTURE EXHIBITION

SEASONAL HIGHLIGHT

MEIJER GARDENS HOSPITALITY

Metro Health Christmas & Holiday Traditions

Rebecca Louise Law: The Womb

Growing As A Good Steward

Up On The Roof

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Winter 2019-20 Volume 11, Issue 1

JOY AND TRADITION It is an honor and privilege to welcome Metro Health as the title sponsor of our Christmas & Holiday Traditions exhibition. We are very appreciative to Metro Health for their support in helping us present this popular exhibition. 25 years ago, Lena Meijer and a few of her family and friends came up with the idea and worked hard to present the first holiday exhibition. Every year since, Lena can be seen decorating the German Christmas tree and making sure the pickle ornament is carefully placed.

Since the first exhibition, it was important to Lena that we celebrate many holiday traditions, and that practice continues today. Christmas takes a lead role in the exhibition, but many other important celebrations of faith and customs from around the world are also featured. Learn why the Festival of Lights is important in the Hindu tradition. Learn how the important Jewish holiday of Hanukkah is celebrated. See examples of spectacular flowers which are part of holiday celebrations for many Vietnamese families. This year’s exhibition includes 46 displays honoring cultures, faith, traditions and holidays from around the world.

The diversity of holidays and heritage we celebrate in the Metro Health Christmas & Holiday Traditions exhibition represents one of the many ways we work to ensure that Meijer Gardens is a place of joy for all people. Our guiding principles state that we believe in fostering diversity and in offering accessible facilities. We define “diversity” very broadly. It is why we have a board-level committee dedicated to creating an inclusive guest, member, volunteer and employee experience at Meijer Gardens. It is why we have contracted with a highly qualified professional to advise, train and inspire us to ensure that diversity is an intimate and permanent part of our culture at all levels. It is why we named our capital campaign, Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love.

Through this capital campaign, parts of the expansion project have been completed and you, our members, have been putting them to good use. For the next year and a half, the focus of the project will be the continued construction of the Welcome Center, the installation of Utopia by Jaume Plensa and the completion of our new parking lot. We continue to be grateful to all of you for your patience as we work to make our facilities even better and more welcoming.

From left to right: Rev. Jim Carlson, Grand Rapids Township Supervisor Marsha Bouwkamp, Fred and Lena Meijer, Betty Ford, President Gerald Ford, Michigan Governor John Engler, Senator Carl Levin.

Over 12 million people have visited Meijer Gardens to experience the joy of our mission. April 20, 2020 will mark the 25th anniversary of the day when Fred and Lena Meijer, President and Mrs. Ford, Senator Levin and others cut the ribbon to open Meijer Gardens. We look forward to reaching this milestone and have a bright future due to the generosity, leadership and dedication of Fred and Lena Meijer, the Meijer family, our donor community and our amazingly wonderful volunteers and staff.

We have many exhibitions, education programs and events that have become traditions. As a team, we are constantly working to improve and make them always growing, always beautiful and always new. Sometimes we try something, and it doesn’t work out as well as we hoped it would. We are grateful for your feedback and patience as we strive to make things better. This positive and constructive attitude is a gift we appreciate.

Meijer Gardens is honored to be a part of the West Michigan cultural community. There are many institutions that have other offerings which are well worth a visit. Recently, The Grand Rapids Art Museum presented Maya Lin: Flow. It was a fantastic exhibition exploring Lin’s artwork and water. Congratulations to our friends at the GRAM.

Gratefully, David S. Hooker

President & CEO, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

HONORARY CHAIRMAN Frederik Meijer (1919–2011) HONORARY MEMBER Earl Holton

PRESIDENT & CEO David Hooker

EX OFFICIO MEMBER President of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation

Benefactor, Advocate and Friend We are saddened to report the death of Richard Brolick, who played a major role in developing Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park into a world class sculpture and horticulture destination.

Serving on the Board of Directors for 18 years, and as Chairman of the Board from 2005–2007, Rich was a part of many committees including the Executive Committee, Horticulture Committee, Nominating Committee, Finance Committee, Sculpture Advisory Committee and Development Committee. Most recently, Rich chaired the Meijer Gardens Long Range Planning Committee, leading to the selection of architects for the Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love project. We thank him for his dedication to Meijer Gardens and we will miss him dearly.

Saralyn Coupe Ryan Anderson Debbye Turner Bell Tasha Blackmon Linda Chamberlain Jocelyn Dettloff Scott DeVecht Suzanne Eberle Joy Fossel Meg Goebel Charyn Hain Shane Hansen Todd Harvey Matthew Heynen Tamara Hibbitts Nancy Hickey Ronald Hofman Mike Jeppesen Yang Kim Jeff Lambert Gloria Lara

Tim Liang Elisa Lintemuth Jon March Janet Mason Candace Matthews Mark Miller Laina Mills Mark Mossing Hannah Naltner Bonnie Nawara Doriane Parker-Sims Jim Preston Carlos Sanchez Bill Schoonveld Joe Taber Edward VanDam Kathleen Vogelsang Maryln Walton Daniel Williams Robert Wolford

ANNUAL EXHIBITION

METRO HEALTH CHRISTMAS & HOLIDAY TRADITIONS SCULPTURE EXHIBITION

REBECCA LOUISE LAW: THE WOMB

NATURE INTO ART: REBECCA LOUISE LAW AND THE EPHEMERAL MEIJER GARDENS HOSPITALITY

UP ON THE ROOF ORGANIZATIONAL HIGHLIGHT

GROWING AS A GOOD STEWARD CHEERS TO 25 YEARS EVENTS / EXHIBITIONS / CLASSES

WINTER WONDER TO SUNNY SPRING

Cover: Henry Moore. Bronze Form, cast 1985. Bronze.

Photo by William J. Herbert.

CURRENT EXHIBITIONS

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

EARLY HOURS FOR MEMBERS Saturday, 8 am–9 am Sunday, 9 am–11 am The first full weekend of each month, Meijer Gardens members can take advantage of earlier open hours. The DeVos-Keeler Gift Shop, James & Shirley Balk Café and Wege Library open at regular hours.

Winter 2019-20 Volume 11, Issue 1 December 2019—February 2020 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 © 2019 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 8–9 10 - 11 12 - 13

PHILANTHROPY / MEMBERSHIP

Miner S. and Mary Ann Keeler

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

4–5

SCULPTURE ESSAY

HONORARY MEMBERS OF SCULPTURE COMMITTEE

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

NOV 26—JAN 5, 2020,

Metro Health Christmas & Holiday Traditions SEPT 20—MAR 1, 2020, Rebecca Louise Law: The Womb

UPCOMING ATTRACTIONS

MAR 1, 2020–APR 30, Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming

14 – 15 16 - 23

The ringed Celtic cross is the symbol of Ireland. Photo by Johnny Quirin.

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ANNUAL EXHIBITION

Member Only Holiday Parties

METRO HEALTH CHRISTMAS & HOLIDAY TRADITIONS

Party with Tree Lighting Ceremony with Santa and Mrs. Claus November 25, 6–8 pm

Tuesday, November 26, 2019–Sunday, January 5, 2020

SEASONAL HIGHLIGHTS Christmas Cabaret Wednesday, December 4, 6–10 pm

Family Parties with Santa and Mrs. Claus December 1, 8, 15 & 16, 6–8 pm

In many cultures, the holidays bring people together in distinct and memorable ways that are difficult to capture in a display. Please watch the award-winning film joy, highlighting several locally celebrated traditions from centuries ago, still vital today. This film will be shown continuously in the Hoffman Family Auditorium and can be viewed on our YouTube channel YouTube.com/MeijerGardens.

Winter is a season rich in symbolism. At its heart are the time-honored traditions expressed through iconic holiday signs and celebrations. Join us as we explore those symbols that evoke a deeper meaning and connect us all.

There’s a timelessness about the holidays that’s captured in treasured traditions. We slow down and come together to honor faith, family and fellowship in celebrations steeped in symbolism.

What better time to joyfully honor these signs of the season than with the 25th annual Christmas & Holiday Traditions exhibition, this year with new title sponsor Metro Health! It’s a milestone we’re marking at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park with the artistry of 27 adorned Christmas trees, 15 cultural displays, an enchanting Railway Garden and special events sure to spark holiday cheer.

As you stroll our indoor corridors and outdoor walkways, lose yourself in the spectacle of 300,000 sparkling lights illuminating festive winter plantings that connote life, resilience and growth. This year’s curated displays are especially exquisite—your sense of wonder will come alive with all the signs of the season.

Wreaths have deep history across many cultures. Their circular shape signifies eternity, as they have no beginning and no end. Evergreen wreaths, in particular, represent strength and everlasting life, since evergreens retain their leaves through the harshest of West Michigan winters. Look for bird ornaments and olive wood carvings, both tokens of peace. An evergreen native to the Middle East, the olive tree can live up to 2,000 years and its wood is considered sacred in many religions. Another symbol of note is the ringed Celtic cross, which has become the symbol of Ireland.

The star shape is a nod to the star of Bethlehem that sits atop Christmas trees and in several holiday displays like the one from the Philippines, whose unique parol is a star-shaped lantern that serves as the main symbol of Christmas.

Candles symbolize great miracles and family. Their glowing light signifies purity, goodness and good fortune, as seen in India, where the meaning of Diwali is to rejoice in inner light. Families light small lamps known as diyas to bring prosperity and good health.

No visit is complete without a stop at our magical Railway Garden and a screening of our original film, joy!, in the Hoffman Family Auditorium. This awardwinning film was shot in Grand Rapids and highlights centuries-old celebrations that are still honored today, opening with our own Lena Meijer decorating her beloved German tree.

Our holiday family events are anchored in symbolism, too. Join us on November 25 for the annual Christmas tree lighting or for one of five additional Member Holiday Parties on December 1, 8, 15 and 16 and an adults-only party on December 2, RSVP required. Stop by for an evening visit with Santa and the Dickens Carolers on November 26 and December 3, 10 and 17, or come during the afternoon and mingle with Santa’s reindeer on November 30 and December 7, 14 and 21. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Metro Health Christmas & Holiday Traditions is made possible by

Additional support from

Adult Party (18 and over) with cash bar December 2, 7–9 pm RSVP online at bit.ly/FMGHoliday19, rsvp@meijergardens.org, or call 616-974-5222.

EXTENDED HOLIDAY HOURS Entire facility is open until 9 pm December 17—21, 23, 26–28, and 30 PLEASE NOTE: Meijer Gardens is CLOSED on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day

Santa Visits Tuesdays: November 26, December 3, 10 and 17, 5–8 pm The Original Dickens Carolers Tuesdays: November 26, December 3, 10 and 17, 6–8 pm Rooftop Reindeer Saturdays: November 30, December 7, 14, and 21, 1–4 pm Winter-Time Walks December 3, 2019–January 4, 2020 Preschoolers: Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 11:15 am Family and Friends: Saturdays, 11:15 am Fee: Included with admission Winter in the Lena Meijer 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 together to participate in an interactive story time with games, finger plays, songs and more.

joy!

Railway Garden is sponsored by

The Meijer Foundation

Botanic and Sculpture Societies of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation

Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts Star 105.7

ANNUAL EXHIBITION 5

Rebecca Louise Law. The Womb, 2019. Mixed Media. Photo by Chuck Heiney.

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SCULPTURE EXHIBITION

REBECCA LOUISE LAW: THE WOMB

Friday, September 20, 2019—Sunday, March 1, 2020 PROGRAMMING Exhibition programs are drop-in, and registration is not required. Please direct questions to Amber Oudsema at 616-974-5225.

The History of Environmental Art Sunday, December 8, 2 pm FEE: Included with Admission Dr. Billie Wickre, Professor of Art History, Albion College The Environmental Art movement began in the 1960s and early 70s as a way to appreciate nature. Over time, it has become a way for artists to address the endangering of ecosystems. Join Dr. Wickre as she highlights some important works of art in the Environmental Art movement that have been intended to evoke change in the ways in which we understand and interact with our surroundings.

Motherhood in Art Sunday, January 12, 2 pm FEE: Included with Admission Amber Oudsema, Curator of Arts Education, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and Adjunct Professor of Art, Grand Valley State University Concepts of nurturing, protection, bounty and growth have been explored throughout the history of humanity.

Join Amber Oudsema as she highlights some artworks that delve into the experience of motherhood and the complex relationship between mother and child.

Rebecca Louise Law: The Womb is made possible by The Meijer Foundation Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation Botanic and Sculpture Societies of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts Media Sponsor Townsquare Media

Step into The Womb, an immersive experience that explores the fleeting beauty of nature, and enter the thought-provoking world of British artist Rebecca Louise Law, an international figure in installation art whose canvas is the air.

With the simplicity of natural material and her signature copper wire, Rebecca Louise Law profoundly redefines the concept of evolving beauty in fresh and dry flora.

The Womb is her latest landmark exhibition, and you can only see it at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

Nature and color played center stage in the artist’s life from a very young age.

Inspired by her family’s nursery garden, Law first learned to press flowers into paintings from her grandmother. Years later, as an art student at England’s Newcastle University, she studied painting, but quickly moved from canvas to using flowers as sculptural material. The opportunity to explore new materials inspired her desire to push the boundaries of her own art.

“I began to research my own motivation for creating art,” remembers Law. “Art and gardens influenced my life from a young age, yet when I was painting a flower, it was never large enough. I wanted my viewers to be completely enveloped by it.” She turned her focus to color field painters, admiring how their technique drew viewers in. After years of creating large-scale works herself, Law took her art to a new dimension. “I wanted to break free from the canvas and paint the air. I used food, fabric, plastic and natural materials. I entwined flowers into the work, with mad collective installations and started to see the incredible possibilities.”

In 2003, Law swapped paints for preserved flowers. In the years since, she has created renowned installations that provide an intimate, intriguing look into her fascination with humanity’s relationship with nature. The Womb is comprised of undulating vines suspended from the ceiling that envelop visitors as they enter the space. “It gives the sensation of being cocooned in nature,” continues Law. “I looked at the womb as a vessel and studied its science and form through paintings and sculptures.”

It’s an organic installation that’s best experienced with focused intention void of technology. As visitors make their way down the defined path that leads to The Womb, the artist asks them to refrain from using mobile devices or cameras. Doing so keeps them present in the moment­—it’s an invitation to become part of the exhibition.

“It was important to me to consider the best viewer experience,” notes the artist. “In the gallery, I have allowed a space for taking photographs. But once you enter the artwork, your focus [should] be on your personal experience with nature without that distraction.

The artwork has tranquility and peacefulness—I want viewers to feel cocooned.”

Creating such colossal works like The Womb requires Law to continually grow her collection of flowers. More than 10,000 fresh flora came from Meijer Gardens alone, joining the more than one million flowers and plants comprising the installation. Staff and volunteers assisted the artist by gathering and wiring each piece by hand.

“The natural grounds here are abundant and I am passionate about including it in my ongoing collection,” says Law. “It has been inspiring to be surrounded by art and horticulture. I’m extremely happy with this exhibition and thankful for the freedom to explore the wonder and beauty of The Womb.”

SCULPTURE EXHIBITION

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NATURE INTO ART: REBECCA LOUISE LAW AND THE EPHEMERAL Enter the ever-changing world of Rebecca Louise Law in a landmark exhibition that uses flowers as sculpture to explore, in the artist’s words, “the balance between survival and art.”

Greek physician Hippocrates once said, “Ars longa, vita brevis,” or “Art is long, life is short.” The ephemeral nature of The Womb by renowned British sculptor Rebecca Louis Law challenges this idea. The immersive and site-specific installation took hundreds of hands and more than one million pieces of flora to create, and it can only be experienced here at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park through March 1, 2020.

The notion that art made from naturally decaying material cannot last ominously surrounds the work that Law began in 2004, which led to a series of distinctive installations at the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, the Toledo Museum of Art and, now, Meijer Gardens.

The apparent contradiction of making sculpture from perpetually changing material never stopped the artist from engaging with her preferred materials. Her journey of creating an afterlife for botanicals echoes ancient traditions of using flowers in a commemorative way, such as archaeological treasures like the floral wreaths originally placed with Egyptian and GrecoRoman mummies. Yet generally, the history of Western art has focused on the “Ars longa” of Hippocrates’ aphorism, with sculptors prioritizing durable material like stone and metal to create long-lasting monuments in marble and bronze. Only in the past five decades have artists begun to push sculpture into a new direction, incorporating plants, flowers, food and other fleeting material into their work.

The late 1960s was a watershed moment in art history, as artists increasingly explored the possibilities of integrating organic material to expand the definition of sculpture. In his book, Sculpture Since 1945, art historian Andrew Causey notes that, “Sculptures could be made from earth and sand; growing plants; live birds and animals; fabric; classical fragments; architectural structures; neon tubes; light beams; etc.”

The desire to break away from the restrictive, traditional gallery setting led artists to embrace different forms of land art.

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SCULPTURE ESSAY

In 1974, Richard Morris designed his first large-scale earthwork in the United States, with Belknap Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Morris carved a field out of an existing hillside with two intersecting pathways that form an X shape. Often referred to as “Project X,” his landscape design remains, but has evolved over time as weeds have grown around it and cracks have appeared in its asphalt paths.

Several artists in the permanent collection at Meijer Gardens are closely linked with nature-based, organically-developed art too. Giuseppe Penone’s sculptures and performances have often centered on his tactile connection with trees and their cycles of growth. His bronze It Will Continue to Grow Except at that Point, on view in The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden, explores the line between the natural environment and the manmade. Andy Goldsworthy is perhaps the most well-known artist currently working with impermanent material like ice, sticks, leaves and flowers. You can see his monumental Grand Rapids Arch, made from Scottish sandstone, in our Sculpture Park. David Nash peers into the organic process of wood decay and natural growth in Sabre Larch Hill, for which the artist partnered with our own sculpture and horticulture teams to plant a grouping of larch trees tied to stakes for their initial growing years. Eventually, these trees will mature untethered, modifying their originally prescribed direction, to grow into the shape of sabres.

Rebecca Louise Law is the latest artist featured at Meijer Gardens to ponder the sculptural potential of natural material.

Drawing her inspiration from the cocoon in both human and botanical realms, she probes the boundaries of humanity’s relationship to nature and the analogies between forms of shelter and life-sustaining environments. The Womb is an immersive experience inviting us into a sculptural passage that is both beautiful and boundless.

Essay by Jochen Wierich, Curator of Sculpture & Sculpture Exhibitions

Giuseppe Penone. It Will Continue to Grow Except at that Point, 2004-2010.

Photo by Peter McDaniel.

SCULPTURE ESSAY

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Our hospitality team can help plan an unforgettable event. Photo by Kirstin Volkening.

UP ON THE ROOF Whether you come up for the panoramic views of our wetlands, a spectacular sunset or an evening under the stars, the new Stuart and Barbara Padnos Rooftop Sculpture Garden does not disappoint. See why it’s quickly becoming our newest hospitality hotspot.

A modern expression of the duality of our mission, the distinctively urban Padnos Rooftop Sculpture Garden is so much more than a rooftop.

In every season, the scenery is stunning, with ever-changing views overlooking 30 acres of natural wetlands and rooftop beds perpetually abloom with architectural plants and important works of contemporary sculpture. Like the Holton Victorian Garden Parlor, this beautiful, new venue features an interplay of horticulture and sculpture that creates an unforgettable event experience unique to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

Yet aesthetics are just the beginning. The unusual treetop setting begs for imaginative event planning, guided by our talented team of professional event coordinators. The outdoor venue, soon-to-be LEEDcertified, flexibly transforms to accommodate virtually any concept, with standing room for 120 or seating for up to 100. The intimate space is attached to the main building, just adjacent to our larger Hauenstein, Pfeiffer and Frederik Meijer Gardens Foundation rooms, as well as catering staging areas for wedding parties, VIPs, guests and staff alike.

Close proximity makes for a seamless transition from the outside in, too. Our hospitality team has designed and hosted progressive events that feature cocktails under the night sky followed by dinner inside, or quiet wedding ceremonies on the rooftop that turn into lively indoor receptions. We handle every meticulous detail and custom request with care, so guests can relax on the rooftop and enjoy one another. Being just a few steps from the main building makes it possible to stay dry and warm in case of inclement weather.

No matter the size or scope of the event, every one of our rental experiences offers exclusive amenities like multiple catering options, a full-service liquor license, convenient onsite parking and complimentary admission to open exhibits and garden areas. Our award-winning hospitality team has recently been named Best Meeting/Event Venue Outside of Detroit by Michigan Meetings + Events; Best Place for a Reception by Grand Rapids Bride; Best Wedding Venue by Grand Rapids Magazine; and the Best Place to Pop the Question Townie Award.

Magnificent or modest, personal or professional, we promise to make every event memorable. Meijer Gardens can customize any event to make it a truly exceptionable experience. For current pricing or to book your event, please call 616-975-3146 or visit MeijerGardens.org/host.

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MEIJER GARDENS HOSPITALITY

“My Excavation Experience, a live auction item at the Great Gardens Party, included a dinner on the Padnos Rooftop Sculpture Garden, after operating construction equipment and before The Temptations + The Rightous Brothers concert. The weather was perfect and the table was set with orange-cone name tags, and miniatures of the vehicles. Chef Andy Krause was amazing by creating an extraordinary ‘upscale construction worker’s lunchbox’ theme for dinner. The food, company and conversation was terrific, all complimented by this amazing new space at Meijer Gardens.”

—Meg Goebel, President, Paul Goebel Group See photos and learn more about the Excavation Experience at MeijerGardens.org/experience.

View overlooking the wetlands from the new Stuart and Barbara Padnos Rooftop Sculpture Garden. Photo by Peter McDaniel.

MEIJER GARDENS HOSPTALITY

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GROWING AS A GOOD STEWARD As our campus continues to change, grow and take new shapes, we keep a constant eye on environmental stewardship.

From horticulture to sculpture, hospitality to facilities, we diligently seek new and novel ways to raise our sustainability performance.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is intimately intertwined with the natural world. As environmental stewards, we respect the beauty of our diverse environment by nurturing its health, preserving its integrity and protecting its legacy for generations to enjoy.

When we construct new facilities, they are all built to be LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified. We partner with companies who share our environmental passion and, whenever possible, source and transport building materials in the United States to lower our carbon footprint.

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ORGANIZATIONAL HIGHLIGHT

Two years ago, we created an internal Waste Reduction Task Force to reduce landfill waste. Improvements to date include more intentional recycling efforts, most notably the recovery of recyclable cans and bottles from our popular Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens. Last year, we stationed cardboard bins throughout the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater. This past season, we upgraded to permanent metal cans marked for trash, recycling and deposit returns. To increase efficiency and accuracy, we staffed these stations with volunteers to help patrons sort recyclables and, ultimately, decrease recycling contamination.

The new concessions building also includes a can crusher, with recycling picked up three times a week. Deposit items are returned, with money serving our General Operations Fund. As of September, we had already collected 35,000 recyclables—more than doubling the total from the 2018

Our upgraded, permanent metal cans marked for trash, recycling and deposit returns located outside the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater. Photo by Kevin Huver.

concert season. Back of house areas like catering, break rooms and volunteer stations also sort recyclables. The James & Shirley Balk CafĂŠ has switched to sustainable containers and paper straws, and the task force is investigating the future viability of composting.

We also recycle rainwater and runoff across our 158 acres.

Rather than allow water to run straight into the storm sewer system, we engineer creative ways to slow it down so it can be repurposed in our wetlands or gardens to nourish plant material and wildlife. Water retention areas in our rain gardens are planted with perennials that can handle periodic flooding, and we use the water from our ponds for irrigation.

These same sustainability principles played a large part in the design of the Stuart and Barbara Padnos Rooftop Sculpture Garden. Where structures with flat roofs typically have a rubber membrane that allows water to drain into a storm sewer

system, our innovative rooftop garden acts like a sponge.

Initial rainfall gets absorbed by roots and plant material, with any excess water filtering through the soil, then traveling down a drain and eventually returning to the lawn and wetlands. It’s a sustainable system that captures the majority of rooftop precipitation; it takes an immense rainfall to overwhelm it. Even the hard surfaces follow suit. Pavers sit on a floating grid that allows water to flow through and run underneath to irrigate planting beds.

Environmental stewardship is a responsibility we embrace at Meijer Gardens. As you watch us grow, know that sustainability and conservation are at the heart of every conversation and decision we make. See our efforts take shape at MeijerGardens.org/growing.

ORGANIZATIONAL HIGHLIGHT

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CHEERS TO 25 YEARS Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park will celebrate its 25th Anniversary in 2020 with special activities, events and displays throughout the year. Look for more information in the next three editions of Seasons magazine, on Facebook, in member e-blasts and through the mail. We hope you will join with us as we celebrate this milestone.

One of the ways in which you can support our mission to promote the enjoyment, understanding and appreciation of gardens, sculpture, the natural environment and the arts is with a contribution to Meijer Gardens’ 2020 Annual Fund campaign. Annual Fund gifts are unrestricted, meaning Meijer Gardens will steward these gifts to areas needed most to advance our mission.

For those of you who have supported the Corporate or Individual Annual Fund campaigns in the past, we send our gratitude and encourage you to renew your support. For those who have yet to participate, we hope you will accept our invitation to do so in this landmark year.

Why should your company donate to the Annual Fund? Why should you donate if you have already purchased a membership?

There is no one better to answer those questions than these two donors who made their very first Annual Fund gift in 2019.

“Meijer Gardens is a top-notch, non-profit organization and I believe in what they stand for—bringing horticulture and sculpture together for the pleasure of visitors right here in Grand Rapids and from around the world. As a company, we want to give back, but we also want to become part of something bigger than ourselves. We are proud to support such a wonderful mission.”

—Scott Renner, Velo Law

“My two kids think I work in a magical place. We come and play in the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden on my days off, and I came and walked The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden with my baby on my maternity leave. My family gets a lot of joy out of exploring this place. I get a lot of joy in my job out of seeing other people learn about art and nature while they’re here. It made sense to donate—I want to see it continue to grow.”

—Megan Kellner, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Indoor Education Manager

To donate: Make your gift online at MeijerGardens.org/donate, send a check (payable to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park) to Meijer Gardens, Attn: Meghan Burke, Annual Funds Manager, 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or call Meghan at 616-975-3143. Look for additional ways to donate to the Annual Fund in honor of our 25th Anniversary in the Spring 2020 edition of Seasons.

Thank you for your membership support and for your consideration of an Annual Fund gift in celebration of our 25th Annniversary!

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PHILANTHROPY/MEMBERSHIP

CORPORATE PARTNERS AT MEIJER GARDENS Meijer Gardens is grateful for the generosity of our corporate community. Our Corporate Partners program provides support for special events, exhibitions, and critical programming elements. To learn more, contact Meghan Burke at 616-975-3143 or mburke@meijergardens.org.

AMBASSADOR LEVEL $25,000+

BENEFACTOR LEVEL $5,000 (cont.)

SUSTAINER LEVEL $2,500 (cont.)

Amway Corporation

Priority Health

Northern Trust Bank

Corporate Live

RDV Corporation

Pioneer Construction, Inc.

Cumulus Media, Inc.

Reliable Energy, Inc.

Preusser Jewelers

Fifth Third Bank

ShowSpan, Inc.

Progressive AE

Fox17

Spectrum Health

Harvey Lexus of Grand Rapids

Steelcase, Inc.

Universal Forest Products, Inc.

iHeart Media West Michigan

Walter's Gardens, Inc.

Meijer, Inc. Metro Health Hospital MLive Media Group Townsquare Media WGVU

PATRON LEVEL $10,000 Absopure Water Berends Hendricks Stuit Insurance Blue Lake Public Radio Constellation Brands, Inc. Gilson Graphics Howard Miller Company

Varnum LLP

SUSTAINER LEVEL $2,500

CONTRIBUTOR LEVEL $1,000 616 Amusements, LLC

Aquinas College

Association of Grand Rapids Landscape Professionals

Betz Industries

Carmela Specialty Foods

Airway Oxygen, Inc.

Cook Holdings Crowe LLP Custer, Inc. Dean’s Landscaping and Excavating, Inc. DJ’s Landscape Management DK Security Dykema Ellis Parking Company

Lawrence Productions

Everett’s Landscape Management, Inc.

Macatawa Bank

Excel Electric, Inc.

Meyer Music

Experience Grand Rapids

Michigan Radio

FASTSIGNS of Grand Rapids

US Golf Cars, Inc.

Fence Consultants of West Michigan

Warner Norcross + Judd

Van Andel Institute

Harbor Hawk Hilbrands Landscape Management, Inc. Northland Express Transport

Deloitte

InnoValuation LLC

Foremost Graphics Group

Keller Williams Realty Market Center North

Four Star Greenhouses Gemini Media, LLC Henry Mast Greenhouses, Inc.

Kendall College of Art & Design Lacks Enterprises, Inc.

Sally Wilson Janice Oshinski Suzanne Winer Loyd Winer

Elevated Antiques Everett’s Gardens Grand Rapids Center For Mindfulness Herman Miller, Inc. Irwin Seating Co. Juhas and Sullivan Jewelry Katerberg VerHage, Inc. Kent Country Club Leo’s Restaurant Masterpiece Flower Company, LLC

Life EMS Ambulance

Remacon Compressors, Inc.

Miller Johnson

Materials Testing Consultants, Inc.

Velo Law Office

Owen-Ames-Kimball Co.

Mercantile Bank of Michigan

Active List as of 9/30/19

MeXo / Zoko822

Lorraine McDonald Anonymous Rita Balczak Robert & Elaine Bruinsma Peter Bruning & Elizabeth Garber Bruning Kathleen Ensley

Bill Pietri Kirupa Chinnathambi

Design Collective Floral & Gifts

MVP Sports Clubs

Legacy Trust

Sheila Cummings Paul Spindler

Lynn Lindeman Valerie Lindeman

Lillian Mountain Joseph & Lisa Becherer

Catch Air

Landscape Design Services, Inc.

Insignia Homes

Adam C-R Anonymous

Betty Lamb Gloria Yff

Ede Mellendorf Mary Sizemore

Blue Water Growers

Grand Valley State University

Hortech, Inc.

Joseph Boland Ed & Jane Gray Sheila Ham David & Elizabeth Hamm William and Dorothy Leete Molly and Steven Parker Mary A. Vankuiken

Edith Kaye Joseph & Lisa Becherer

Better Made Snack Foods, Inc.

BENEFACTOR LEVEL $5,000

Cascade Engineering

Gracia Blanchard Jeffrey & Paula McDonald John & Susan Schams Sandra Shank

Carolyn Heymann Karen Holdridge Debbie Verker

American Plastic Toys, Inc.

Egypt Valley Country Club

Hansen-Balk Steel Treating Co., Inc

IN MEMORY

Angie Gibson Jack Gibson

Carol Ertl Michael & Linda Holloway Douglas & Michelle Houghton Julie Karcis & James Seward Robert & Jeralyn Keeney Norbert & Rebecca Kugele Kirsten Ries Edward Smith

FRIEND LEVEL $500

WYCE 88.1

Burgess Concrete Construction, Inc.

Lawrence Bartell Carol Berkland

Shirley Freund Richard & Pauline Jones

W.A. Lettinga Investment

Eckhoff & DeVries Painting

Bartlett Tree Experts Co.

IN HONOR

Twin Lakes Nursery, Inc.

Gerald R. Ford International Airport Great Lakes Wine & Spirits, LLC

The following tribute gifts were received between July 1 and September 30, 2019. Those honored or memorialized are shown in bold type, while the donors are in regular type.

PADNOS

Ferris State University

Wolverine World Wide, Inc.

QUARTERLY TRIBUTES

Northern Jet Management

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 6 will be mailed by December 13.

You can purchase new gift memberships online at MeijerGardens.org/membership or by phone at 616-977-7689.

PHILANTHROPY/MEMBERSHIP

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EVENTS

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

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

LENA MEIJER CHILDREN’S GARDEN December 2–30 Mondays; 11:15 am

WINTER-THEMED STORYTIME

FEE: Included with admission Head on out to the Children’s Garden for a warm and wonderful way to experience winter— winter-themed storytimes! Learn about the countless ways to explore the winter season in the Children’s Garden through stories such as All You Need for a Snowman, Bear Snores On, Time to Sleep and Froggy Gets Dressed.

December 3, 2019–January 4, 2020 Preschoolers: Tuesdays and Wednesdays; 11:15 am Family and Friends: Saturdays, 11:15 am

WINTER-TIME WALKS

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 together to participate in an interactive storytime with games, fingerplays, songs and more.

January 7–February 25 (best for ages 2–5) Tuesdays; 10:30 am

COZY TALES FOR CHILLY DAYS

FEE: Included with admission This winter our Cozy Tales theme is animals!

Each week we will read about and explore a different type of animal. We hope you can join us as we explore the animal world from mammals to reptiles!

Saturday, February 8 10–11:30 am

WINTER FAMILY DAY

FEE: Included with admission Bundle up for an outdoor adventure in the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden. Join us for an afternoon of wintry fun for all ages! We’ll have plenty of hot chocolate to keep you warm and loads of activities to keep you busy: • Observe a sculptor transform a block of ice into an amazing piece of ice art.

• Create a unique winter-inspired take-home art project.

• Add your touch to a Children’s Garden collaborative ice sculpture display.

• Discover how winter can be a “wonderland” on an interactive naturalist walk.

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EVENTS

Photo by Mark Kiekintveld.

January 25–26 Saturday: Displays 12–5 pm, Sales 10 am–5 pm Sunday: Displays 11 am–4:30 pm, Sales 11 am–4:30 pm

ORCHID SHOW

GRAND VALLEY ORCHID SOCIETY

FEE: Free Escape winter’s chill and enjoy a stunning variety of beautiful, unusual, and colorful orchids exhibited by orchid enthusiasts from across the state. Visit the vendors to find an orchid that’s easy to grow at home or add a more unusual species to your collection. Stock up on orchid growing supplies such as premium orchid bark and fertilizer. Learn how to grow these beauties by attending a free talk (visit MeijerGardens.org for the complete list) or stop by Grand Valley Orchid Society’s information desk to pick up a culture sheet and receive growing tips.

Saturday, February 29, 10 am OR 12:30 pm Sunday, March 1, 12 pm OR 2:30 pm

WHO AM I? A BUTTERFLY BALLET In collaboration with Grand Rapids Ballet Sponsored in part by Jesse and Gia Budrick

FEE: $5 per person for members, $8 per person for non-members Free for ages 2 and younger Regular fees apply for general admission into Meijer Gardens.

Mark your calendars now for a thoroughly delightful butterfly ballet. Told through the eyes of a newly emerged butterfly, the story will captivate young and old alike. With colorful costumes, spectacular music and exquisite choreography, this enchanting performance will provide a unique and memorable experience. Choreographed by Attila Mosolygo and performed by members of the Grand Rapids Ballet Junior Company.

To register, visit MeijerGardens.org/calendar.

Saturdays, February 1 OR 15 (Ages 3 and older) 10–11:30 am

ANIMAL ADVENTURES: SURVIVING IN THE WILD IN COLLABORATION WITH JOHN BALL ZOO

FEE: $5 per person for members, $10 per person for non-members, Free for ages 2 and younger Have fun exploring the survival techniques of an opossum, a duck, a salamander, and a turtle. Enjoy watching live animal presentations, listening to animal stories, completing art projects, playing animal-themed games, and trying your luck at animal challenges. Perfect for ages 3 to 6, but all ages are welcome. Come in from the cold and have fun learning with us!

Reservations are required and can be made online at MeijerGardens.org/calendar or jbzoo.org, or by calling Meijer Gardens at 616-975-3144, or John Ball Zoo at 616-336-4300.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Withdraw from a class at least 30 days in advance and recieve a refund minus a $5 processing fee. Withdraw 7–29 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 & EXHIBITIONS September 20, 2019—March 1, 2020

QUARTERLY BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP

British installation artist Rebecca Louise Law uses dried and fresh plant material to create site-specific installations that dazzle the senses. Law’s use of natural materials, mainly floral, encourage the viewer to experience the relationship between humanity and nature.

The natural decay of the plant material makes this exhibit time-based and encourages frequent visits to observe the process of drying. A big believer in sustainability, Law also reuses dried plant material that has been displayed in her previous installations. See pages 4–5 for more details.

Tuesday, December 10 1–2:30 pm

REBECCA LOUISE LAW: THE WOMB

Balk Gallery, Rebecca Louise Law: The Womb exhibition. Photos by Chuck Heiney.

November 26, 2019—January 5, 2020

READ & EXPLORE: ART AND GARDENS BOOK GROUP

FEE: Included with admission For the winter edition of our quarterly book group we turn to the art world, discussing Jonathan Harr’s The Lost Painting: The Quest for a Caravaggio Masterpiece. Described by one critic as “a perfect work of narrative nonfiction,” this book will be sure to inspire wide-ranging discussion. As part of the afternoon, our Curator of Arts Education, Amber Oudsema, will share the revolutionary nature of Caravaggio’s work, why his work still inspires modern artists today and how the concepts he used in his paintings can be seen in the sculptures in Meijer Gardens’ permanent collection. Limited to 20 adults. RSVP to 616-975-3144 or skilroy@meijergardens.org.

METRO HEALTH CHRISTMAS & HOLIDAY TRADITIONS Trees and displays represent 46 cultural celebrations. See pages 4–5 for more details.

EXTENDED HOLIDAY HOURS

Entire facility is open until 9 pm December 17–21, 23, 26–28, and 30 PLEASE NOTE: Meijer Gardens is CLOSED on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

MEMBER HOLIDAY PARTIES

Space is limited. Choose one of three ways to RSVP: • Go online at bit.ly/FMGHoliday19 • Email rsvp@meijergardens.org • Call 616-974-5222.

The events are free of charge for members and guests allowed under your membership level. Regular admission prices apply for nonmember guests.

TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY With Santa and Mrs. Claus November 25, 6–8 pm

EXHIBITION HIGHLIGHTS SANTA VISITS

Tuesdays, November 26, December 3, 10 and 17, 5–8 pm

THE ORIGINAL DICKENS CAROLERS

Tuesdays, November 26, December 3, 10 and 17, 6–8 pm

ROOFTOP REINDEER

Saturdays, November 30, December 7, 14 and 21, 1–4 pm

HOLIDAY FAMILY PARTIES

With Santa and Mrs. Claus December 1, 8, 15 & 16, 6–8 pm

ADULT HOLIDAY PARTY With cash bar December 2, 7–9 pm (18 and over only)

CHRISTMAS CABARET—Holiday Gala

December 4, RSVP required.

Visit MeijerGardens.org/Cabaret19 for more information or contact Matt Eickhoff at 616-975-3168 or meickoff@meijergardens.org

Photo by William J. Herbert.

SAVE THE DATE Tuesday, April 21, 7 pm

SECCHIA GARDEN LECTURE The Master Lecture Series FOLIAGE FIRST—THREE EASY STEPS TO TRANSFORM YOUR LANDSCAPE AND CONTAINER DESIGNS

FEE: Included with admission Speaker: Karen Chapman Join sought-after garden designer, award-winning author, and experienced horticulturist Karen Chapman as she reveals three easy steps that will breathe new life into your landscape and containers.

Through striking imagery she’ll explore how to establish a framework using interesting foliage before layering in additional elements such as flowers, bark, berries and more. Karen will also highlight some of her deer-resistant favorites.

Karen’s books, Gardening with Foliage First and Deer-Resistant Design, will be available for sale and signing at the lecture.

EVENTS AND EXHIBITIONS

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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.

Saturday, January 11 (Adults) 10 am–2 pm

NATURAL DYES

Photo by Johnny Quirin.

INSTRUCTOR: Megan Williams FEE: $50 members, $60 non-members Join Megan Williams of Adventure Textiles to discover the art and science behind achieving natural colors from onion skins, avocado pits, turmeric and more. Learn how to set up natural dye pots, dye with four kitchen materials, then shift some of the colors with an iron modifier.

Leave with 21 samples in a small dye recipe book and a canvas tote dyed in class.

All materials provided.

Monday, December 9 (Adults) 6–8 pm

Tuesday, January 14 (Adults) 2–5 pm

PHOTOGRAPHING HOLIDAY LIGHTS

INSTRUCTOR: Cory Olsen FEE: $30 members, $40 non-members Learn the basics for beautiful seasonal photographs—effective backgrounds, creative angles, light effects and best time of day. Then try out what you’ve learned amidst 300,000 holiday lights. Must be familiar with how to change camera into manual mode and change ISO and white balance.

INTRODUCTION TO DRAWING

Natural Dyes example and materials.

INSTRUCTOR: Megan Kellner FEE: $50 members, $60 non-members Sharpen your powers of observation while learning the basics of drawing from life.

Practice sketching simple geometric and natural objects while learning about proportion, sighting and contour. No experience required—just an open mind and a desire to build your drawing skillset. All materials provided.

Saturday, January 18 (Adults) 9:30 am–1 pm

WET FELTING: PAINTING WITH WOOL Photo by Amber Oudsema.

Tuesday, January 7 (Adults) 6–8 pm

DRIED FLOWER WALL HANGING

INSTRUCTOR: Amber Oudsema FEE: $35 members, $45 non-members Experience Rebecca Louise Law's exhibition, The Womb, where thousands of carefully chosen flowers and other natural materials have been cut and hung in an immersive installation, before gathering in the classroom to learn about floral symbolism, scents and color choices.

Then, design and construct your own dried flower wall hanging using craft materials and reclaimed objects to act as an artistic and functional piece in your home or in the home of a loved one. All materials provided.

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CLASSES

INSTRUCTOR: Kathy Forzley FEE: $65 members, $75 non-members Unleash your inner Monet and learn to create a beautiful impressionist-style painting using wool fiber. Kathy will demonstrate how to prepare the wool base, discuss techniques for adding colors represented in your photo and show you how to create different flower and leaf shapes, while adding small amounts of fabric, silk, wool nepps and other fun embellishments.

Finish the process by using soapy water and wet felting techniques. Your finished piece can be mounted on canvas, framed or made into a pillow cover. Bring a photo for inspiration.

All other materials provided. Some rolling of felt required.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Painting with Wool example.

Withdraw from a class at least 30 days in advance and receive a refund minus a $5 processing fee. Withdraw 7–29 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.

CL ASSES

REGISTER ONLINE AT MEIJERGARDENS.ORG/CALENDAR *

( ) Applies toward MSU Extension

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.

Master Gardener education credit.

Saturday, January 18 (ages 7+ with adult) 10 am–12 pm

Tuesday, January 21 (Adults) 6–7:30 pm

MINDFULNESS FOR FAMILIES

A GARDENER'S JOURNEY TO JAPAN*

INSTRUCTORS: Grand Rapids Center for Mindfulness FEE: $10 member child, $15 member adult $13 non-member child, $18 non-member adult Join Cheryl Blackington and Brenda Schroeder to learn how mindfulness and Tai Chi can help cultivate presence, calm and kindness to oneself and others. Enjoy the beauty of Meijer Gardens while learning some mindfulness tools along with principles and movements of Tai Chi. Participants will learn the basics of mindfulness through a variety of hands-on activities appropriate for ages 7 and up. All materials provided.

INSTRUCTOR: David Rettig FEE: $15 members, $20 non-members Enjoy a cup of tea and a traditional Japanese sweet as David Rettig, Meijer Gardens Horticulture Lead, provides an overview of Japan, discussing the island nation’s climate, mountainous terrain, and culture that have a significant influence on its gardens. Then go on a guided virtual tour of several Japanese gardens, including Murin-an, Saihoji, Ryoanji, Tenryuji, and Kinkakuji. Learn about their history, the types of plants used, and how they are planted, pruned and maintained.

Discover the similarities and differences between these celebrated gardens in Japan and several Japanese gardens in the United States, exploring design, plant selection, materials such as boulders and structures, and the approach to maintenance.

Wednesday, January 22 (Adults) 4:30–5:30 pm

Saturday, January 25 (Ages 6-10 with adult) 10–11:30 am

GARDENS IN GLASS

GRANDPARENT AND ME: PLANT A TERRARIUM

INSTRUCTOR: Laura Worth FEE: $45 members, $55 non-members Create a garden in miniature inside a unique glass terrarium using a variety of tropical plants. Learn how to care for your terrarium for future success. Make it match your personality by bringing your own decorations, such as stones or driftwood for a natural look, or tiny people or animals for a whimsical display. All other materials provided.

FEE: $18 member child, $18 member adult $22 non-member child, $22 non-member adult Share the fun experience of creating a terrarium!

Learn how a terrarium is like a mini-greenhouse and why it is a wonderful environment for certain plants. Get a behind-the-scenes tour of one of our greenhouses, then think small as you create your own unique terrarium in a non-breakable container. Use markers to draw fun scenes on clear plastic to attach to the outside of your terrarium. All materials provided.

Monday, January 20 (Adults) 5–8 pm

BEGINNING GOUACHE

INSTRUCTOR: Nancy Hart FEE: $50 members, $60 non-members Gouache is a pigment-rich, water-based medium admired by artists for its vibrant colors. Learn the materials needed and the basic techniques to get started using this exciting, forgiving and very versatile medium. Apply these techniques while working from a photo. Bring an image as a reference. All other materials provided.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Withdraw from a class at least 30 days in advance and recieve a refund minus a $5 processing fee. Withdraw 7–29 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.

Gardens in Glass example.

CLASSES

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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.

Sunday, January 26 (Adults) 9–11 am

PHOTOGRAPHING ORCHIDS

INSTRUCTOR: Dusty Brown FEE: $30 members, $40 non-members Start with a short lesson in the classroom, then spend time photographing the best of the best—the beautiful and interesting entries in the Orchid Show—all before Meijer Gardens opens to the public! After class, you are welcome to visit the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory to photograph your favorite orchids from our collection. Bring a macro lens and tripod if you have them. Must be familiar with your camera’s manual functions.

Saturday, February 1 (Adults) 10 am–2 pm

CREATIVE HAND LETTERING

INSTRUCTOR: Katie Reitemeier FEE: $55 members, $65 non-members This class will build upon your own handwriting to create artfully drawn letters using pencil, marker, and watercolor enhancement. Apply your newfound skill to creating a framed quote and 1-2 valentines to share. Take home a framed chalkboard, chalk marker and practice notebook.

Photo by William J. Herbert.

Friday, February 7 (Adults) 10 am–12 pm

IKEBANA INSPIRED FLORAL DESIGN

INSTRUCTOR: Mandi Stade FEE: $55 members, $65 non-members Create a unique floral arrangement based on principles of ikebana, the Japanese art of floral design.

No previous experience is necessary—learn about equipment that is needed; how to select branches, flowers and other plant material; and how to arrange them to create a composition that reflects the beauty found in nature. Taught by a certified instructor with rank of 4th Grade Sogetsu Ikebana Teacher. Limited to 12 students. All materials provided.

Tuesdays, February 4 AND 11 (Adults) 5–8 pm

BEGINNING OIL PAINTING

INSTRUCTOR: Nick Antonakis FEE: $95 members, $105 non-members Discover the basics of using water soluble oil paints and the appreciation of still life as subject matter. Build a painting from start to finish, exploring techniques for representing three-dimensional forms. Learn to develop a strong composition, then progress from sketching to a completed still life artwork on canvas. All materials provided.

Ikebana example. Arrangement for class will be similar using different plant material. Photo by Mandi Stade.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Withdraw from a class at least 30 days in advance and receive a refund minus a $5 processing fee. Withdraw 7–29 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.

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CLASSES

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.

Saturday, February 8 (Ages 6-10 with adult) 10–11:30 am

GRANDPARENT AND ME: CHOCOLATE

FEE: $18 member child, $18 member adult $22 non-member child, $22 non-member adult Work in pairs to make a wild and wonderful sculpture from chocolate clay! Visit the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory and learn where chocolate comes from. Learn the difference between additive and subtractive sculpture and discover how shapes are used to create art.

All materials provided.

Saturday, February 22 OR March 21 (Adults) 8–9 am

CABIN FEVER YOGA

INSTRUCTOR: Dean Jeffery FEE: $7 members, $17 non-members Break free of the cold and join us for a morning yoga session among the fragrant flowering plants in the Grace Jarecki Seasonal Display Greenhouse. Open to all levels and ages.

Bring a yoga mat and water bottle.

Pre-registration is required.

A close up of a cacao tree in The Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory.

Photo by Dean Van Dis.

Saturday, February 29 (Adults) 8–9:30 am

COFFEE WITH THE CURATOR

INSTRUCTOR: Steve LaWarre FEE: $15 members, $25 non-members Join our Director of Horticulture, Steve LaWarre, for a special behind-the-scenes tour of the Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming exhibition. Steve will discuss what goes into putting this exhibit together each year, how the butterflies are received and what happens once they are here. Get your questions answered over coffee and muffins and get a sneak peek of this exhibition before it officially opens.

Butterfly feeding station in the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory.

Photo by Peter McDaniel.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Withdraw from a class at least 30 days in advance and receive a refund minus a $5 processing fee. Withdraw 7–29 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.

Observation Station. Photo by Peter McDaniel.

CLASSES

21

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.

*

( ) Applies toward MSU Extension

Master Gardener education credit.

Saturday, March 7 (Adults) 9:30 am–1:30 pm

BEGINNING VEGETABLE GARDENING BOOTCAMP*

INSTRUCTOR: Greg Dunn FEE: $40 members, $50 non-members Starting from the ground up, learn methods for preparing your site and the importance of good soil. Discover how watering, fertilizing, pest management and selecting the best varieties of plants will ensure an abundance of vegetables all season long. The benefits of “super soil” and composting will also be discussed. A half hour break will be given.

Tuesday, March 17 (Adults) 6–7:30 pm

MAINTAINING THE PERENNIAL GARDEN

INSTRUCTOR: Jeremy Windemuller FEE: $25 members, $35 non-members Receive expert advice on how to make your perennial garden look its best. Discover which plants should be deadheaded and when to do it, how to properly irrigate, which plants should be cut back in the fall, and how to deal with pests and diseases.

Also receive tips on drainage, soil amendments and fertilizers.

LECTURE: PEONIES FOR THE GARDEN* Tuesday, March 10 (Adults) 7–8 pm

INSTRUCTOR: Dr. David Michener FEE: $15 members, $20 non-members Discover the rich assortment of colors, shapes, sizes, blooming times, and fragrances that peonies provide in the garden. Dr. Michener, author of the book, Peony: The Best Varieties for Your Garden, will reveal some of the most beautiful cultivars available and how to enjoy their gorgeous blooms for weeks by growing the three main types—tree, bush and intersectional.

Learn about The Peony Garden at Nichol’s Arboretum, featuring the largest public collection of historic herbaceous peonies in North America.

Then receive tips on how to grow them, from soil preparation and sunlight requirements to fertilization, to ensure that peonies will be long-lived perennials in your garden.

Peony: The Best Varieties for Your Garden will be available for purchase in the gift shop and a book signing will follow the lecture.

About the speaker: Dr. David Michener is the Associate Curator at the University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Garden and Nichols Arboretum.

He is co-author of Taylor’s Guide to Groundcovers and has written articles for Horticulture magazine. Dr. Michener is a nationally sought-after presenter and an authority on peonies. His own garden has appeared in several publications and David has led garden study tours in Asia, Europe, New Zealand, and North America.

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CLASSES

CANCELLATION POLICY

Withdraw from a class at least 30 days in advance and receive a refund minus a $5 processing fee. Withdraw 7–29 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.

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.

*

( ) Applies toward MSU Extension

Master Gardener education credit.

Thursday, March 12 (Adults) 6–8 pm

Tuesday, March 24 (Adults) 6–7:30 pm

Tuesday, March 31 (Adults) 6–7:30 pm

FUSED GLASS SPRINGINSPIRED LANDSCAPE

SMART PLANTS FOR THE POLLINATOR GARDEN*

SUCCULENTS FOR THE GARDEN*

INSTRUCTOR: Gloria Badiner FEE: $75 members, $85 non-members Participants will design, cut and shape glass into a spring-inspired landscape. A wide selection of colors, accessory products and specialty glasses will be available to enhance your design. Your projects will be fused and mounted on to a wooden base and will be ready for pickup in two weeks. All materials provided.

Sunday, March 15 OR March 22 (Adults) 9–11 am

INSTRUCTOR: Rebecca Finneran FEE: $25 members, $35 non-members Pollinators are essential to our environment and the food we eat. Join MSU Extension Horticulture Educator Rebecca Finneran to explore a wide palette of plants as well as conservation techniques that encourage pollinators. By choosing the right plants and adopting “Smart Gardening” behaviors, home gardeners help our native bee and insect populations thrive.

INSTRUCTOR: John Scholten FEE: $25 members, $35 non-members Learn about the different kinds of sedums, from low groundcovers to the best new varieties of showy stonecrop. Discover stunning combinations and compatible accent plants, and also learn about maintenance requirements. Then explore succulents that are perfect for patio pots, such as mangaves, echeverias, aloes and more. These beauties require no pampering.

BUTTERFLY PHOTOGRAPHY

INSTRUCTOR: Dusty Brown FEE: $30 members, $40 non-members Learn techniques for creating fantastic butterfly photos, including lens selection, background choice, composition, light and exposure. Enjoy time alone with the butterflies before public hours begin. Bring a tripod or monopod and a macro and/or telephoto lens. Some photography experience is necessary.

Saturday, March 21 (Adults) 10 am–12 pm

THINK SPRING: ADDING FLOWERING HERBS TO YOUR GARDEN* INSTRUCTOR: Connie Hanson FEE: $40 members, $50 non-members Looking to add some color to your garden?

Learn about unique flowering herbs that are easy to grow and have both culinary and medicinal uses. Along with an informative recipe handout, each participant will take home seeds for several easy-to-grow annual flowering herbs including calendula, nigella, and climbing nasturtium. Participants will make an aromatic Indian spice blend called Panch phoran and receive ideas on how to cook with it, and will take home a container of Calendula and Comfrey Healing Salve.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Withdraw from a class at least 30 days in advance and receive a refund minus a $5 processing fee. Withdraw 7–29 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.

Photo by Dusty Brown.

CLASSES

23

Rebecca Louise Law with her newest exhibition, The Womb, 2019. Mixed Media.

Photo by Chuck Heiney.

British installation artist Rebecca Louise Law is recognized internationally for her colossal floral sculptures. Using both fresh and dried plant material and flora, Law’s site-specific installations dazzle the senses. Strung by hand on thin copper wire, an incredible one million flowers and plants from Law’s existing collection are on display, and an additional 10,000 flowers and plants that were gathered from Meijer Gardens’ grounds are also installed.

Rebecca Louise Law: The Womb is made possible by

The Meijer Foundation Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation Botanic and Sculpture Societies of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts Townsquare Media

24 19-477

HORTICULTURE EXHIBITION

WINTER 2019-20 Volume 11, Issue 1

In this immersive exhibition, designed exclusively for Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, Law explores the relationship between humanity and nature.

Accompanying the larger installation is a collection of glass sculpture and paintings. Though photography is allowed in specific areas, Law encourages guests to put aside their cell phones and cameras and fully engage with the exhibition. Experience Rebecca Louise Law: The Womb through March 1, 2020.

Would you prefer to receive Seasons via email?

Friday, September 20, 2019—Sunday, March 1, 2020 vvv

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

Rebecca Louise Law: The Womb

1000 East Beltline Avenue NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525

THROUGH MARCH 1

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

ONGOING