The Bridge | Summer 2022 by Myriad Botanical Gardens

The Bridge SUMMER 2022

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory Update Summer Events and Programs

Vision Statement Myriad Botanical Gardens seeks to enhance the quality of life and vibrancy of downtown Oklahoma City by creating and sustaining a world-class public garden and offering year-round horticultural, cultural and recreational programs and events for all.

Myriad Gardens Foundation COMMUNITY BOARD

EXECUTIVE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chairman, Larry Nichols President, Chris Fleming Treasurer, Lindsey Brock Chair Emeritus, Jim Tolbert Governor Bill Anoatubby Mark Beffort John Hart Avis Scaramucci Councilman Todd Stone Sean Trauschke CEO/President Maureen Heffernan Chief Financial Officer Chuck Davis Deputy Director/ Secretary Debora Morey

Tony Boghetich Gerry Bonds Lindsey Brock Andy Burnett Vera Cheek Matt Cole James Everett Warren Filley Linda Haneborg Linda Horn Gail Huneryager Michael Laird Regina Lane Paul Lefebvre Jean McLaughlin Robert Meinders Dee Morales Musallam Kent Phillips James Pickel Christina Rehkop

Andy Rine Lynn Robberson D. Joe Rockett Avis Scaramucci Kim Searls Marsha See Carl Shortt Sally Starling Roy Williams

The Myriad Gardens Foundation wishes to thank our sustaining partners, leaders in providing major ongoing annual support:

Continental Resources Devon Energy Corporation E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation Inasmuch Foundation LaDonna and Herman Meinders Robert H. Meinders Jean and David McLaughlin OGE Energy Corp. Oklahoma City Economic Development Trust Park Robinson LLC The Chickasaw Nation The City of Oklahoma City The Kirkpatrick Family Fund Robert Glenn Rapp Foundation Avis Scaramucci Tinker Federal Credit Union

THE BRIDGE EDITORIAL STAFF DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND PR

Leslie A. Spears CREATIVE DIRECTION + DESIGN

Sean Ball COVER PHOTO BY

Leslie A. Spears Catmint Nepeta racemosa has grown in the Children’s Garden pollinator garden.

Letter from the President and CEO Dear Gardens Supporters: The first new trees were recently planted into our renovated Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory. This was an exciting milestone after months and months of demolition and construction work. New pathways, waterfall, reflecting pool and terraces are completed. Soon, thousands of additional plants will be installed over the next several months. New educational features include interpretive signage and interactive exhibits, a Discovery Room for children and families and a new classroom for all ages are also part of this major renovation project. All of this is leading to our grand re-opening in November after a year and a half of renovation work. Our reimagined Conservatory will provide a beautiful space thriving with fascinating and exotic species of plants worth seeing, understanding and appreciating. We hope that all ages will find it a place of discovery and delight and that this polished jewel of a cultural destination further enhances Oklahoma City as a city that exceeds expectations. We can’t wait to share the results with our members and look for a members preview tour later in the fall. Fundamental to the ability to fully renovate the Conservatory is the support of the City of Oklahoma City and a number of private donors. We are especially highlighting in this Bridge issue, a recent major gift from The Chickasaw Nation. This capstone gift has helped us reach our campaign goal of nearly $11 million. Look for more opening news later this summer. Until then, we have a full summer and fall of our popular programs and events to enjoy. Thank you for your support that helps make Myriad Botanical Gardens your beautiful and vibrant oasis in the city. Maureen Heffernan

A Redwood rootball will be planted by the bromlieads at the entrance to the Conservatory.

Thanks to the 4,100 plus visitors who attended this year’s Children’s Garden Festival: A IS FOR ART, held in June. The Day the Crayons Quit, Harold and the Purple Crayon, The Dot, and Aaron Slater, Illustrator were the books highlighted. Guests enjoyed free rides on Mo’s Carousel, playing in the Thunder Fountain, daily story time with the Metropolitan Library, face painting, free crafts, classes, the imaginative displays and more. The Festival could not have been possible without the 200 volunteers who generously donated their time. In addition we are grateful to the local artists, which included school children and the horticulture staff, who created the innovative vignettes. The generosity of our sponsors made this year a great success. Thank you to Devon Energy Corp., E.L. and Thelma Gaylord, Tinker Federal Credit Union, First United Bank, Gray Blodgett & Company, IPGI and Bank of Oklahoma.

YEARS

The Chickasaw Nation Gift A Capstone to Capital Campaign Our exciting Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory renovation has been made possible by a number of private donors, foundations, companies and the City of Oklahoma City, that understood the importance in investing in updating a botanical treasure for our city. Opened in 1988, the Conservatory was in need of infrastructure and exhibit space renovation. Thanks to a generous capstone gift to the capital campaign for this project from The Chickasaw Nation, we are close to reaching our goal of $11 million. We are very grateful to Governor Bill Anoatubby and the Chickasaw Nation for enabling us to complete the project as envisioned. For nearly ten years, the Chickasaw Nation has supported the Gardens. That spirit of generosity did not waiver when presented with the plans to renovate the Crystal Bridge Conservatory. Governor Anoatubby and the Chickasaw Nation are forward-thinking cornerstones of support for many nonprofits that serve to improve the quality of life in our city and state. Their sponsorship has helped provide the community year-round quality education programs for schools and families as well as seasonal events and fitness programs.

Speaking about the Conservatory, Governor Anoatubby said, “It is one of Oklahoma City’s most beautiful learning and recreational attractions. We are pleased to support this project.” The newly renovated Conservatory will not only display tropical and desert plant collections, but also have a scenic waterfall, terraces, new seating, reflection pool, new interpretive elements, views from the third floor skywalk and improved ADA accessibility. Visitors will learn about the wonder of nature as they appreciate the giant palm trees, bromeliads, mango tree, chocolate scented daisies, and monkey orchids. A new gift shop will further enhance the visitor experience at the Gardens. “I can’t say enough about Governor Anoatubby and the Chickasaw Nation,” said Maureen Heffernan, President and CEO of Myriad Gardens Foundation. “Because of them and many others, our reimaged Conservatory will be one of the most unique conservatories in the country.” This wonderful gift from The Chickasaw Nation, and all donors to the project, will help keep Myriad Botanical Gardens growing strong for the next generation to enjoy.

Governor Anoatubby

Florida trip proves fruitful By Nate Tschaenn, Director of Horticulture

ust before 4 a.m. on a Wednesday in late January, I rolled out of bed, quickly got dressed, and headed to the airport. I caught one of the first flights out of OKC at 5:20 a.m., thankful that our city’s small airport made it easy to arrive less than an hour before departure. I landed in Miami, Florida, three hours later and headed to the rental car center. From there I drove four hours to a nursery outside Orlando, only to return later that day to my hotel in Miami. I was there to pick out plants for the conservatory project. While most of the plants I was looking for were in the Homestead area just south of Miami, I couldn’t find any olive trees there. This nursery had some large ones and a few other plants I was having trouble finding like a — chocolate tree, for example — so it was worth the long day of traveling. There were a few reasons why it was necessary to make this trip to pick out these plants in person. The first is that there is a limit on how big the plants can be and still fit into the conservatory. A hallway at the entrance creates a 5-ft wide pinch point. This didn’t end up being a problem for most of the plants we were looking for but was a critical detail for some like the olive tree. We wanted to get the largest olive tree possible. While there were larger trees available — some in pots that were over 6-ft wide — I had to find one that could squeeze down to 5-ft on at least one side. I was able to find an impressive specimen that I was confident could fit. It also had a really nice form, which is the second reason it was important to pick out trees in person. I was looking for specific forms and branching patterns on these trees. The final reason it was important to go in person is I was struggling to get responses from these nurseries by phone, text or email. One nursery in particular, that had a significant portion of the trees I was looking for in large sizes, was especially difficult to connect with. To be fair, nurseries are struggling with a labor shortage and high demand. When I did visit in person, the owner still seemed reluctant to work with me. Even though my order was fairly large, it involved a lot of single species of trees. He mentioned his frustration about contractors coming to him with projects like this that couldn’t tell one tree from another. But as soon as he realized I knew a fair deal about all these tropical trees,

Nate Tschaenn in Florida with an olive tree

he was excited to work with me. He seemed to have a good time showing me all his trees and sharing stories about them. He even talked me into adding a few trees that weren’t in my design. In the end, it was a very successful trip. I was able to finalize orders at six different nurseries that included more than 50 large trees and shrubs. I was also able to visit a few other nurseries that will be providing smaller plants to fill in once these are planted.

Above: The trees arrived from Florida in April and were planted in May and June.

Several cubic yards of specially mixed soil were delivered to the Gardens in April.

Inside the Conservatory, Nate works with Lingo Construction on soil placement.

SAVE THE DATE

Tropical Splendor in the Gardens THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13 A Celebration of the Grand Reopening of the Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory 6-7PM Cocktails in the Crystal Bridge Conservatory 7:30-9PM Dinner on the Devon Lawn

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE. Contact Travis Humphrey, Director of Development, (405) 708-7803 or email thumphrey@myriadgardens.org

Garden Shop Cabinetry Shaping Up New Retail Space Reflecting the new contemporary aesthetic of the Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory, the shop will offer merchandise curated to reflect the Gardens’ horticulture mission. The store has been designed by Charles Sparks, a noted retail designer whose award-winning work can be found in museum shops around the country. The shop will offer an incredible collection of vendors, makers and artists who match the mission of education, gardening, and quality craftsmanship.

Customers will get a distinctive and inviting shopping experience. It will be a place where members, guests, and downtown dwellers can find unique items, either for themselves, or get gifts to remember your trip to the Gardens. Visitors can get coffee and cold drinks. Purchasing items will also support the Myriad Gardens. Opening fall 2022.

MYRIAD GARDENS MEMBERS WILL RECEIVE A 10% DISCOUNT ON ALL MERCHANDISE.

Stephanie Humes named manager for new retail store A life-long Oklahoma resident, Stephanie has over twenty years of experience in retail, including bridal and independent shops. With more than ten years as a florist and boutique manager plus event planning. “It’s an exciting time for the Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory,” Said Humes. “I look forward to opening day and sharing this new space with our visitors. We have curated a selection of goods that are both beautiful and useful, all while focusing on creating a shop that will extend our mission.”

Hardy Hibiscuses are the star attraction this summer at the Gardens Hibiscus is a genus of flowering plants in the mallow family, Malvaceae. The genus is quite large, comprising several hundred species that are native to warm temperatures, subtropical and tropical regions throughout the world.

LOWER PARK UPDATE Scissortail Park has been over a decade in the making, and it exceeded public expectation when the first phase, the 36-acre Upper Park, opened in September of 2019.

shaded sites to interact with natural materials, like boulders, logs and more to provide endless opportunities for creative play.

MAPS 3 has transformed downtown with a stunning, masterfully designed urban park with beautiful gardens and grounds, a stage for community programs and concerts, a lake, walking trails, roller rink, playground, interactive civic fountain, boathouse, and picnic trellises.

The Lower Park will also have extensive natural plantings to represent the prairies of this region with grasses and native wildflowers. Hundreds of new trees will be planted throughout the site for shade and to provide sheltered habitats for wildlife. A winding main Promenade path and smaller walking trails will extend close to the Oklahoma River trails making it a true Core to Shore experience.

In addition to the Park’s grounds and facilities, the Park is also filled with a year-round diverse mix of programs that include a Farmers Market, concert series, festivals, markets, exercise classes, and much more.

In cooperation with City of Oklahoma City leadership, MAPS 3, and public planning committees, Scissortail Park is coordinating an exciting weekend of programming that represents our entire community to celebrate the completion of Scissortail Park - For Everyone.

This southern section of the Park, connected by the Skydance Bridge, is comprised of an additional 32 acres that will offer sports courts including: two basketball courts, soccer field, futsal court and four pickleball courts. A Nature Playground for children and families provide

SPONSORSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE, CONTACT: Jayme Phillips, Director of Development Scissortail Park jphillips@scissortailpark.org

The Farmers Market at Scissortail Park is a seasonal market located at the corner of Oklahoma City Boulevard and Robinson Avenue inside Scissortail Park. The market runs every Saturday through October from 9am-1pm.

Guided Garden Explorer Tours Return Join Myriad Botanical Gardens horticulturists Josh Berry and Bradley Fowler for FREE Guided Gardens Tours every second Friday at 1 p.m. and the last Saturday of each month at 10 a.m. They will lead you on a tour throughout the Gardens discussing current blooms, shrubs, trees and projects they’re working on continuously improve the Gardens. These tours are wheelchair and stroller friendly, and leashed dogs welcome. Meet in the Visitor Lobby of the Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory.

Garden Explorer Website Looks It Up For You Garden Explorer at myriad.gardenexplorer.org enables you to access Myriad Botanical Gardens entire database of plants from all 15-acres of outdoor gardens. Soon, Garden Explorer will include the plant life in the Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory. It can be used to explore the plant collection in a variety of ways. If you would like to see specific plants in the Gardens but don’t know where to find them, you can use the “search” function with either the scientific or common names or search by plant family. Plants that can be found within our collection will be displayed with their location on a map along with additional information. If you would like to see a planting list of one of our many gardens within the Myriad Botanical Gardens, like the Oklahoma native plants found in our Prairie Garden, you can also search by area. Use the Map feature to zoom in on a specific location in the Gardens and see all the plants located in that area. You can use this feature to help identify any plants for which you could not find a label or just explore the many types of plants you will find growing at our gardens from your own home. Under Tours find a selection of self-guided walking tours created by the Myriad Gardens’ staff highlighting plants of seasonal or thematic interest.

The Secret Garden has grown lush this season.

The Secret Garden has grown into lush respite In 2018, the Oklahoma City Community Foundation announced the Myriad Botanical Gardens was awarded a Parks and Public Spaces Initiative Grant in the amount of $25,000 to fund the construction of The Secret Garden. The Foundation has a long history of support for the Gardens, generously supporting a number of projects over the years including a comprehensive wellness program, walking tours, a beautiful new shade garden and now The Secret Garden.

into an area where visitors can relax, picnic and enjoy the tranquility of nature. This secluded spot was enhanced with beautiful ornamental trees, shrubs and perennial to further screen and enchant the garden space.

The grant helped transform an underutilized 7,000 sq. ft. section of the Gardens on the busy northeast corner located behind the boulder waterfall on the corner of Sheridan and Ron Norick Boulevard. The Secret Garden has now grown

This space can be rented for impromptu weddings among other events. For costs and availability, email the Rentals Department at rentals@myriadgardens.org.

This location is inspired by the hidden garden in the classic children’s book, The Secret Garden, by Frances Hodgson Burnett.

Seeking Horticulture Volunteers Help our horticulture staff in maintaining areas in the Gardens such as the Center Slope, the Prairie Garden and more. Includes weeding, planting and overall maintenance. You’ll work alongside the horticulture team. Volunteers learn about gardening during this experience and will gain knowledge for working in their home gardens. Find a shift that fits into your schedule and sign up by visiting myriadgardens.volunteerhub.com or email Laura Gipson, Volunteer Coordinator at lgipson@myriadgardens.org.

Corpse Flower Blooming Event Brings Great Crowd

t was a wonderful week for the Gardens when we experienced the blooming of the Corpse Flower named Crystal, which began on Sunday, April 3. Located in the Visitor Lobby since the Crystal Bridge Conservatory is closed for renovation,staff welcomed nearly 5,000 visitors. We received $11,000+ in donations given in $5 up to $20 bills.

14 11

Dear Folks at Myriad Gardens, I am writing to give a big, warm thank you for the terrific job you did for Oklahoma City regarding the corpse flower. I was one of the many who stood in the long line to have a unique glimpse at this weird and utterly fascinating botanical experience. While standing in line on that chilly, wet day, I was thrilled at how pleasant people were, standing for nearly two hours to see a relatively ugly flower bloom. Kids were running around playing and having a ball, families were talking and taking pictures and looking up at the buildings downtown. I thought about the pandemic and all the noise and stresses we have all been exposed to. And yet here was my community, gathered in the damp and cold, on a Monday night, lined up for nearly a block to see a rare and unique plant: free of charge. I heard no complaining, no griping, just laughter and a sense of basic fun.

Clearly this experience was not about the blooming of an odd plant. This was something much more special and much more human. I saw staff members with smiles on their faces and welcoming everyone. Once inside, the lady sitting at the front desk was telling those of us waiting in line about the new renovations to the conservatory and answering questions about membership. She was likely overwhelmed with the large audience she had and yet she beamed and smiled and made all of us feel so welcome. I saw the staff member in the yellow jacket by the plant taking photos for everyone with their cameras with so much patience, while she must have been exhausted from standing for so long. Every person I saw involved with the Myriad Gardens was kind, patient, extremely friendly and incredibly calm given the likely surprising mass of people waiting to see this plant. I am personally grateful for the live camera installed. Because of it, my mother while visiting my father in memory care facility he lives in, was able to show him and together watched me see (and sniff ) the bloom when I sent her the link and texted her to tell her I was getting close to the plant. I am grateful you stayed open late to accommodate so many people visiting and did so with complete selfless kindness. I am grateful for Nate Tschaenn’s care and patience nurturing this plant for 8 1/2 years. I am grateful for this simple but profoundly enjoyable experience you all gave back to our city and community (as well as all of those who likely came from elsewhere). I am grateful. Please know that you made your city proud and brought some muchneeded joy to many people at a time when it was needed. Now that spring is here (and I’m lucky enough to live within walking distance), I look forward to walking the Gardens and seeing the plant varieties grow and bloom. Clearly this experience was not about the blooming of an odd plant. This was something much more special and much more human. My respect and gratitude to all of you. Well done!

Andrew S.

SUMMER OF FUN IN THE GARDENS

DANCING IN THE GARDENS

YOGA

Tuesdays, 6pm and Saturdays, 9am Bring a mat, water / Devon Lawn

SPONSORED BY

SONIC SUMMER MOVIES Wednesdays, June 29-July 27

Fun begins at 7pm; Film at sunset Devon Lawn and Bandshell FREE

JURASSIC PARK (1993) / July 13 SING 2

(2020)

/ July 20

BATMAN RETURNS

(1992) /

July 27

JUMP! AT THE GARDENS Saturday August 6, 10am-1pm, Seasonal Plaza SPONSORED BY

Children of all skill-levels will learn to jump rope/double dutch skills. Take an instructional lesson, followed by a performance by the Preston Pirate Jump Rope Team. Kids can make their own jump rope with our rope-making machine for $5. Medals will be given to kids who can show off skills they’ve learned.

HIGHER GROUND: A STEVIE WONDER TRIBUTE CONCERT Friday, August 26, 7:30pm / Devon Lawn & Bandshell SPONSORED BY

AD ASTRA FOUNDATION

As part of our annual tribute series, this year the Myriad Botanical Gardens brings the music of legendary singer/songwriter/ musician pioneer, Stevie Wonder through the voices and sounds of OKC’s best live acts.

BUSKER STREET FAIR Friday, September 9, 6-9pm Myriad Botanical Gardens locations

A festival celebrating the international history of busking artists. Busking: the activity of playing music or other street performances in public spaces for voluntary donations from music to art and live theatrical performances. From music to art and live theatrical performances, enjoy local entertainers and street musicians around the Gardens along with food and art vendors for a festive downtown experience.

ARTS COUNCIL OF OKC’S SUNDAY TWILIGHT CONCERTS Sundays, through August 28, 7:30-9pm / Devon Lawn & Bandshell

JULY

AUGUST

7-17 The Vibro Kings – Rockabilly/ Surf & Blues 7-24 Chloe-Beth – Indie Rock 7-31 OK Virtousi – Classical

8-7 The Latin Band – Latin 8-14 Cliff Top – Blue Grass 8-21 Edgar & The Brave Amigos – Virtuosi Variety 8-28 Shortt Dogg – R&B/Smooth Jazz/Funk

EDUCATION ADULTS SATURDAY, JULY 23, 10–11AM

PROPAGATING PLANTS M $15; NM $20 While we can start plants from seeds, we can also start them from cuttings of roots, stems, leaves, and more. Techniques, methods, and timing vary across plants depending on their growth habits and features. Learn how to get your own plants to propagate, grow, and thrive. We will put our skills to the test by propagating some of our experiences here from our gardens.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 13, 10–11AM

FALL VEGETABLE GARDENING M $10; NM $15 While spring awakens the urge to garden, fall is really one of the best seasons to garden in Oklahoma. As temperatures start to lower, fall is an excellent time to have ample harvest by frost, as well as a few tips to extend your season even further. Join us for everything from concept to harvest as we plan our own fall gardens.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 20, 10-11AM

WORKSHOP: NEEDLE FELTING SUCCULENTS M $20; NM $25

Needle-felting is a woolbased textile art rapidly growing in popularity and wellness trends, allowing you to create a finished piece fairly quickly in a process that many consider to be very therapeutic. Join us in learning all about the tools, supplies, and methods necessary for this art, and go home with your very own felted succulent in a tiny terra cotta pot. All supplies are provided so that you can continue this craft long after you’ve left our class.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 10AM-NOON

PLANT-BASED DYES M $30; NM $35 As many seek natural alternatives to carcinogenic or otherwise environmentallyunsustainable practices, plant-based dyes have become more and more popular in the textile world. We will discuss the benefits of plant-dyeing textiles, the versatility of a whole spectrum of plants and collaboratively demonstrate the stepby-step process that will lead you to being able to dye your own natural textiles. Each participant will be provided a set of tea towels and everything needed to dye them at home.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 10-11AM

ALL ABOUT ORCHIDS! M $10; NM $15 Join us as we learn about different types of orchids, what they need, how to grow them, where they come from, and more. This plant family guarantees to find itself on your list of favorites, and if you’re anything like us, you’ll be collecting more than you know what to do with in no time at all.

SECOND FRIDAY, 1PM & LAST SATURDAY 10AM EACH MONTH

GUIDED GARDEN TOURS FREE Take a guided tour through the Gardens led by horticulture staff. Learn about what’s in bloom and get tips to help with water conservation, planting, care and more. Meet in the Visitor Lobby. Wheelchair and stroller friendly. Leashed dogs welcome.

Volunteer For the Summer & Beyond Myriad Botanical Gardens is excited to offer a variety of volunteer opportunities for adults, youth and groups. Volunteers can either be: • • •

Occasional Volunteers – Volunteering once or twice a year Partner Volunteers – Dedicating 36 hours or more a year Corporate/Group Volunteers – 4 or more members of a group that choose to volunteer at the same time

Interested in becoming a tour guide in the Conservatory when it reopens this fall? Let’s talk. Contact Laura Gipson, Volunteer Coordinator at lgipson@myriadgardens.org.

JULY 4-AUGUST 12, 10AM-12PM Monday through Friday Children’s Garden Porch Suggested $2 donation

Stop by the Children’s Garden for fun activities that explore and celebrate the world of plants Each weekday offers a new theme. Make-It Monday Children will “make and take” something home using a variety of natural and humanmade craft materials.

Plant-astic Tuesday Each week learn about a new beautiful or tast plant and pot up its seed to take home and grow on your own.

Reading Wednesdays Enjoy nature-inspired books that connect children with what is growing and changing in the Garden each week. Blooming Thursday Learn about what plants are blooming that week in the Children’s Garden. Then go on a hunt to find that plant yourself.

Find-it Friday This is a self-guided scavenger hunt, leading you on a discovery of nature in the Children’s Garden with all of its shapes, textures, and beautiful colors. Use fun tools like magnifying lenses and binoculars to find your finds.

Mo’s Carousel, a charming attraction near the Children’s Garden and Thunder Fountain, has been bringing smiles to families since 2018.

CURRENT SUMMER HOURS

Monday through Sunday, 11am-8pm

AUGUST 1 THROUGH 10 11am-8pm

STARTING AUGUST 11

Monday through Friday, 5-8pm Saturday and Sunday, 11am-8pm Cost is $3 per rider FREE for Family PLUS members. To join, visit myriadgardens.org/membership.

PARTICIPATING ARTISTS Dennis Burian Martha Burger Amber Casper JD Epperson Kristen Gentry Debby Kaspari Linda Kukuk Kurt McDaniel Linda Kukuk

Jerry Piper Krysta Quinn Amanda Marie Reich Kyndall Rainey Connie Rish Lauren Rucker Adrienne Wright Janice Yeary

Since there is no naturally occurring blue chemical to color things blue, blue is a difficult hue to detect in nature. Due to their scarcity, blue rocks and minerals have historically been expensive and highly sought after by the wealthy, dating all the way back to the Egyptians’ extraction of lapis lazuli thousands of years ago. Even the rare blue-appearing animals and plants don’t truly contain the color. These vivacious blue organisms have evolved some special abilities that make advantage of the laws of light. This exhibit looks at various blue-related occurrences in nature and explains why they are blue.

Jerry Piper

Visit the exhibits in the Visitor Lobby Art Gallery during open hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, 12-5pm; Closed Mondays.

Leaf In Light Works of Art by Kyndall Rainey October 28 - December 30 20

Did you miss BLOOM! Works by Sharon Sudduth, recently? The paintings were stunning. To learn more or to purchase Sharon’s art visit sharonsudduthart.com

KeepMovingOKC and Myriad Gardens Partner for Wellness Initiative Calendar a key source for wellness programs throughout the area One popular Myriad Gardens partnership to help people get outside and enjoy our community is KeepMovingOKC (KMOKC), a wellness initiative hosted by the Oklahoma City Community Foundation. KeepMovingOKC is an online calendar listing of free and low-cost physical activities in the OKC metro. KMOKC works with a variety of organizations to populate this calendar, including the Myriad Botanical Gardens. The Community Foundation’s Parks & Wellness Programs Manager Lanc Gross is thrilled to have the Gardens on board.

KeepMovingOKC spokesperson Leah Philpott travels across the metro to take part in events and activities posted on the website. Leah is always happy to join in the fun, and has helped kick off the Myriad Gardens Full Moon Bike Ride two years in a row. “The Full Moon Bike Ride is an awesome place to see people of all ages, who are expert riders or just starting out come together for a fun, casual event, Leah said. “It’s exactly KeepMovingOKC (KMOKC) spokesperson Leah Philpott what KeepMovingOKC was designed addresses the Full Moon Bike Ride attendees. “The overall design of the Myriad Gardens was for – a simple and intuitive resource created to provide active and passive recreational opportunities sure to have something for everyone, regardless of expertise or along with providing a peaceful retreat from the dense urban interest.” fabric of downtown Oklahoma City,” says Gross. “The active areas of the Myriad Gardens provide downtown residents and To learn more about KeepMovingOKC (KMOKC) visit workers a beautiful place to exercise and stay healthy.” keepmovingokc.org and sign up to receive the newsletter.

New Director of Development and Membership Manager Named Travis Humphrey, Director of Development Travis joins the Gardens with more than 15 years of nonprofit experience, the last eight years as the Executive Director of Bethesda, Inc. “I love working for worthy causes, and making a contribution to the centerpiece of Oklahoma City is a great honor,” said Travis. He received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Oklahoma and a Masters of Divinity from Oklahoma Christian University. He enjoys reading, writing, and playing with his children.

Travis Humphrey

Cindy Biera, Membership Manager Cindy Biera comes to the Myriad Gardens from the National WWII Museum in New Orleans. She has been involved in the arts and nonprofit communities throughout her career. She recently graduated from Oklahoma City University with a Master of Arts degree in Nonprofit Leadership, Arts Administration. Cindy is excited to join Myriad Gardens, as it plays such an integral role in Oklahoma City. She is looking forward to working with the Gardens’ team to give our community the best possible experience when they visit the gardens. Outside of work, she enjoys dancing, spending time with her family, and spoiling her dogs.

Cindy Biera

Rental reservations are being accepted for the Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory The new Conservatory will be ready for rentals including weddings, corporate parties and more beginning in January 2023. For more information, contact our rentals department, (405) 200-1457, or email rentals@myriadgardens.org

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SUMMER OF FUN IN THE GARDENS Visit myriadgardens.org