Seasons - Autumn 2018 {Vol. 9 Issue 4} by Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

HORTICULTURE EXHIBITION

SCULPTURE EXHIBITION

SEASON HIGHLIGHT

MASTER LECTURE SERIES

Chrysanthemums and More!

Process and Presence: Contemporary Disability Sculpture

Holiday Gift Show

Dr. Siddhartha Mukherjee and Bill Woodrow

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Autumn 2018 Volume 9, Issue 4

CHRISTMAS AND HOLIDAY TRADITIONS AROUND THE WORLD

PROCESS AND PRESENCE: CONTEMPORARY DISABILITY SCULPTURE

PROCESS AND PRESENCE

Fred Meijer was a visionary and had the energy and leadership skills to make important things happen. One of the many things Fred believed in strongly was the fact that people with disabilities could have a better life if their environments were designed to better accommodate their needs. To see this, take a trip out to see Fred’s favorite sculpture, The American Horse by Nina Akamu. While Akamu was creating The American Horse, Fred realized that visually impaired people wouldn’t be able to see the monumental piece and was inspired to have a pedestal-size version built that people can touch. Fred personally made the contacts to obtain the braille text that compliments the 15-inch bronze sculpture. Fred’s inspiration is contagious. We continue to design all our facilities with the idea of making them as accessible as possible. We build everything to the standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We look at those standards as a minimum design goal. Often, we can be more intentional in our design and achieve a better result. You will see this design intention in the new facilities being created by the Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love project.

CHRYSANTHEMUMS AND MORE!

You can also see some of the most impactful works of art the world has to offer in our galleries this fall by people with a wide variety of disabilities. The exhibition, Process and Presence: Contemporary Disability Sculpture, emphasizes the relationship between disability and the fundamental human experience of change and embodiment. This exhibition also serves as our participation in ArtPrize. We are honored to be part of ArtPrize for their 10th consecutive year. We believe it is an excellent example of how cultural organizations can collaborate while celebrating the arts. It has been one year since we started construction for Welcoming the World. Significant portions of the project are ready, and others are soon to be ready. The first phase of the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater renovation and expansion was ready for the 2018 summer concert season. At the end of the current concert series, the concessions building will be recycled and a new facility will be ready for the 2019 concerts. The new concessions building will shorten wait lines and provide better facilities to accommodate our visiting artists. The Peter C. & Emajean Cook Transportation Center opened to the delight of our guests in early June. Traveling around the Sculpture Park is much easier now. The Covenant Learning Center will host an open house on October 9, 2018 for all members to see this incredible new 23,000 square foot facility dedicated to education. We are increasing our room capacity from two to seven rooms, which will allow us to significantly expand our programming for learners of all ages.

MASTER LECTURE SERIES

A great lecture can open your mind to knowledge you never knew existed. We have two such offerings this fall as part of the Meijer Gardens Master Lecture Series. Tuesday, October 2, 2018, Dr. Siddhartha Mukherjee, author of The Emperor of all Maladies: A Biography of Cancer, will be presenting. Tuesday, October 16, 2018, sculptor Bill Woodrow will be giving the annual Charles Schoenknecht and Ward Paul Sculpture Lecture. Woodrow’s thought-provoking piece, Listening to History, is in the Sculpture Park. I hope to see you here for these stimulating presentations. Finally, please accept our sincere appreciation for being a member of Meijer Gardens. You give our mission a warm embrace with your membership gift and significantly help us further the mission of horticulture and sculpture given to us by Fred and Lena Meijer. David S. Hooker President and CEO, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Gratefully,

HOLIDAY GIFT SHOW

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

PRESIDENT AND CEO David Hooker

EX OFFICIO MEMBER, President of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation John Baab Ryan Anderson Tasha Blackmon Linda Chamberlain Jocelyn Dettloff Scott DeVecht Suzanne Eberle Michael Gaudino Meg Goebel Charyn Hain Shane Hansen Todd Harvey Matthew Heynen Tamara Hibbitts Nancy Hickey Ronald Hofman Mike Jeppesen Yang Kim Jeff Lambert Gloria Lara Elisa Lintemuth

Jon March Janet Mason Mark Miller Laina Mills Mark Mossing Hannah Naltner Bonnie Nawara William Padnos Doriane Parker-Sims Jim Preston Bill Schoonveld Joe Taber Edward VanDam Kathleen Vogelsang Jill Walcott Maryln Walton Vicky Weller Daniel Williams Robert Wolford John Zimmerman

Dear Friend, Dedicated Employee and Advocate We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of our dear friend and colleague, Ken Wenger. Ken’s passion for the Meijer Gardens mission left a legacy of excellence, not only on the grounds and facilities at Meijer Gardens, but also in everyone’s hearts and minds. He originally worked for one of our vendors clearing the land for our very first building, and was then hired as our first Building Superintendent. Later, Ken faithfully served as Assistant Executive Director and, ultimately, as Vice President of Fixed Operations and a corporate officer. Every square inch of Meijer Gardens has been touched by his positive influence. Ken was a builder and a leader. However, his greatest asset was building relationships. Everyone loved and respected Ken. He was deeply interested in helping others achieve their goals and advancing the mission of Meijer Gardens. His influence in creating a place of joy has been enormous. We celebrate his life and rejoice in knowing Ken played a major role in creating the Meijer Gardens legacy. Donations to the Kenneth Dale Wenger Tree Endowment Fund may be made at MeijerGardens.org/Donate.

Kenneth Dale Wenger (1949-2018).

HORTICULTURE EXHIBITION

CHRYSANTHEMUMS AND MORE!

Miner S. and Mary Ann Keeler

PROCESS AND PRESENCE: CONTEMPORARY DISABILITY SCULPTURE HORTICULTURE ESSAY

MY FAVORITE PART OF MEIJER GARDENS MASTER LECTURE SERIES

DR. SIDDHARTHA MUKHERJEE, BILL WOODROW DEVELOPMENT / MEMBERSHIP

ENDOWING OUR FUTURE

CHRISTMAS AND HOLIDAY TRADITIONS AROUND THE WORLD EVENTS / EXHIBITIONS / CLASSES

CHRYSANTHEMUMS TO CHRISTMAS

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

EVENTS / EXHIBITIONS / CLASSES

HOLIDAY GIFT SHOW Cover: Photo by Dean Van Dis.

CURRENT EXHIBITIONS / ATTRACTIONS

Chrysanthemums and More! SEPT 14—JAN 6, 2019, Process and Presence: Contemporary Disability Sculpture SEPT 19—OCT 7, ArtPrize SEPT 21—OCT 28,

Autumn 2018 Volume 9, Issue 4 September 2018—November 2018 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 © 2018 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.

4–5

SCULPTURE EXHIBITION

ANNUAL EXHIBITION

HONORARY MEMBER OF SCULPTURE COMMITTEE

CONTENT

BOARD of DIRECTORS

UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS / ATTRACTIONS

NOV 20—JAN 6, 2019,

Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World FEB 1—APR 28, 2019, A National Treasure: Fred Meijer, His Collection and Legacy

#MeijerGardens MeijerGardens.org

6–7 8–9 10 – 11 12 – 13 14 – 15 16 - 22 23

Beautiful chrysanthemums in a variety of hues can be seen both indoors and out. Photo by Dean Van Dis. 4

HORTICULTURE EXHIBITION

MEMBER HIGHLIGHTS: Botanic & Sculpture Societies Member Cocktail Party Wednesday, October 17, 6–8 pm This event will include cocktails and appetizers, exclusive tours, and a presentation by Steve LaWarre, Director of Horticulture. Come celebrate Chrysanthemums and More! with us. By invitation only.

PROGRAMMING Herb & Gourd Fest Midwest Michigan Herb Association and Michigan Gourd Society Saturday and Sunday, October 13–14 Saturday, 10 am–5 pm; Sunday, 11 am–5 pm FEE: Included with admission Discover a variety of ways to use herbs and gourds in this annual fall event. A variety of culinary herbs will be featured including hops, the 2018 “Herb of the Year.” Discover the benefits that herbs provide and experience their wonderful fragrances. Kids can participate in a fun art activity with herbs and make their own seed tape to plant in a pot or in the garden next spring. Visit the touchable gourds section and try playing a gourd instrument. Purchase decorated gourds or buy an unfinished gourd and create your own art at home.

Giant Pumpkins Saturday and Sunday, October 13–14 FEE: Included with admission Discover giant pumpkins on display at Michigan’s Farm Garden. Weighing in at hundreds of pounds, these pumpkins will amaze kids and adults alike. Learn all about pumpkins as you sort varieties and answer quiz questions at the Pumpkin Discovery cart. Or try your hand at a pumpkin bean bag toss and play a unique pumpkin game—“Which Vine is Mine?”—to learn about how pumpkins grow.

Mum Day Sunday, October 14, 1–4 pm FEE: Included with admission Enjoy tours and demonstrations led by members of the horticulture department.

Tuesdays at the Farm Tuesday, October 16 and 23, 5–8:30 pm

FEE: Included with admission Eat, drink and dance in the crisp autumn air. A food truck and the Balk Café will be serving up local fresh fare along with West Michigan beers, hot cider and adult cocktails. Dance to a string band with accompanying square dance caller.

Hallowee-ones Friday, October 19, 10 am–12 pm (Parades at 10:15 and 11:15 am) FEE: Included with admission Get creative at this special event designed for our youngest visitors. Dress your child as a sculpture, mammal, fish, insect, bird, tree, flower, geologist or any other way that highlights something about the Children’s Garden. Participate in a costume parade and listen to Halloween-themed stories.

OTHER SEASONAL EVENTS Fall Bonsai Show October 6–7, Saturday, 10 am–5 pm; Sunday, 11 am–5 pm FEE: Free See a variety of bonsai on display, from trees in early stages of training to lovely older trees. Watch bonsai artists at work and shop for bonsai trees as well as bonsai tools and supplies.

Fall Family Day Saturday, October 6, 1–4 pm FEE: Included with admission Visit the Children’s Garden for family fun. Activities include something for all your senses—Press and Pound Color Banners, Autumn-themed Stories, Tree Vest Craft and an “I-Spy” Naturalist Walk about trees.

CHRYSANTHEMUMS AND MORE! September 21–October 28 Growing Local! This year, we invite you to come experience the bounty and beauty of West Michigan as our highly anticipated autumn exhibition celebrates all things local. Come out to the largest exhibition of its kind in Michigan—and this year, the most local. More than ever before, we invite you to savor the goodness of West Michigan growers, farms, food and drink as you take in Chrysanthemums and More! at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Resplendent displays of thousands of blooms, anchored by a palette of purple and burgundy hues, landmark our interior and exterior locations. From the classic to the exotic, these chrysanthemums are cultivated by West Michigan growers. At the centerpiece of the exhibition is the Grace Jarecki Seasonal Display Greenhouse, with signature specialty mums that flow into the Earl and Donnalee Holton Victorian Garden Parlor and Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory. By popular demand, local florists return with their captivatingly creative displays, too. Outdoors, poetic stretches of plantings wow at our Peter C. & Emajean Cook Entrance, Medallion Garden feature, Volunteer Tribute Garden and Lena Meijer Children’s Garden. Yet perhaps nothing welcomes you home more than our charming Michigan’s Farm Garden. Walk back in time to a 1930s era family farm. The extended bounty of farm life continues here and across our campus with countless varieties of plants, pumpkins and gourds produced by local farms, greenhouses and nurseries. Don’t miss the interesting stories of many of these local growers told on our social media—a first for Meijer Gardens. Over the course of the season, many of these stellar horticulturists will share behind-the-scenes insights into our local green industry. It’s not just what to see at Michigan’s Farm Garden—it’s also what to do that honors the local theme this year. Join us on two special evenings, October 16 and 23, from 5–8:30 pm, for a walk or courtesy tram ride out to eat, drink and dance in the crisp autumn air. Food offerings will include Meijer Gardens Hospitality’s pop-up of our own Balk Café, as well as food truck fare from Everyday Chef & Wife. The Balk Café pop-up will feature new fall menu items, Michigan beers, a specialty cocktail and warm Michigan cider for the kids. Take to the barn for dancing with native string band Hawks & Owls, complete with an accompanying square dance caller to help guide your steps. Reservations are not required. In addition to the wonderful edibles from our Michigan’s Farm Garden, our Balk Café proudly sources ingredients from local farmers, butchers and bakers, in partnership with Local First. Family fun is in store all season, too. Highlights of our autumn activities include Giant Pumpkins Weekend, Fall Family Day and our annual autumn Bonsai Show and Herb & Gourd Fest. We promise to delight all of your senses as you come home to Chrysanthemums and More!, where local is more. Chrysanthemums and More! is made possible by

The Meijer Foundation Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation

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

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

Shinichi Sawada. Untitled, n.d., Clay. Photo courtesy of The Museum of Modern Art, Shiga. 6

SCULPTURE EXHIBITION

MEMBER HIGHLIGHTS: Society Preview Wednesday, September 12, 6–8 pm By invitation only. Meet ArtPrize artists and hear them talk about their work in the galleries.

Member Opening Thursday, September 13, 6–8 pm Meet some of our ArtPrize artists and listen to them discuss their work during a panel discussion led by Joseph Becherer, Meijer Gardens Chief Curator and Vice President.

Meijer Gardens’ ArtPrize Hours September 19—October 7 Monday—Saturday 9 am—8 pm Tuesday 9 am–9 pm, Sunday 11 am—6 pm

PROGRAMMING Exhibition programs are drop-in and registration is not required. Please direct questions to Anna Wolff at 616-974-5225.

Artist Demonstrations FEE: Included with Admission

See process and presence first hand! Observe and interact with an artist in the exhibition before or after viewing the artwork in the galleries. Each artist will be working on a piece similar to their completed artwork on display in the exhibition. Feel free to take a seat and enjoy watching an artist at work or get a bit closer and ask the artist questions directly.

Saturday, September 15, 11 am–12 pm Norimitsu Kokubo

Sunday, October 14, 1–2 pm Wesley DeVries

Gallery Chat Wednesday, September 26, 1–2 pm FEE: Included with Admission Chun-Shan (Sandie) Yi

Sandie Yi is both an artist and activist. Stop by the gallery to view her artwork and listen to her speak about how she envisions her own body as an artistic medium for advocacy, creativity and identity. This chat is informal—the artist will be stationed near her artworks and available for conversation.

Curator’s Lecture Sunday, November 4, 2 pm FEE: Included with Admission Dr. Lisa VanArragon

Join Dr. Lisa VanArragon as she highlights and interprets works by many of the artists in the exhibition. She will explore themes of disability cultural identity through the artistic methods, meaning and materials present in the galleries. This lecture will be closed captioned.

SPECIAL EVENT—FILM SCREENING: ART21 Episode 9: San Francisco Bay Tuesday, November 6, 7 pm FEE: Included with Admission

In the latest installment of the Peabody-award-winning series on art happening now in the 21st century, several artists in the San Francisco Bay area are highlighted for their thoughtful and critical practice. Among them are several artists working with the Center for Creative Growth, a disability arts organization also featured in the exhibition Process and Presence: Contemporary Disability Sculpture. The film will be closed captioned. Register at MeijerGardens.org calendar or direct any questions to Anna Wolff at awolff@meijergardens.org or call 616-974-5225.

PROCESS AND PRESENCE: CONTEMPORARY DISABILITY SCULPTURE

Friday, September 14, 2018—Sunday, January 6, 2019 ARTPRIZE: Wednesday, September 19—Sunday, October 7 Collaboration, growth and understanding have been central to the history and development of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and its emergence as a global showcase for the visual arts and human expression. This autumn is certainly no exception as we proudly announce the fruit of a three-year collaboration with DisArt in the landmark exhibition Process and Presence: Contemporary Disability Sculpture. Further, as with each of our fall exhibitions, this event marks Meijer Gardens partnership with ArtPrize—celebrating its tenth vivacious season. Process and Presence: Contemporary Disability Sculpture will fill all three of our sculpture galleries with supplemental video screenings in the Hoffman Family Auditorium. Through the finest examples of three-dimensional practice including sculpture, performance, installation and video art, this exhibition emphasizes the relationship between disability and the fundamental human experiences of change and embodiment. Sixteen artists from across the world will be featured in a carefully organized presentation of 30 individual works. This innovative project is organized jointly by DisArt, a Grand Rapids based arts and culture organization 2018 ARTISTS FEATURED promoting the full participation of Lisa Bufano, United States Kazuo Osugi, Japan disabled people in Brian Catling, United Kingdom Tony Pedemonte, United States the arts, and Frederik Wesley DeVries, United States Shinichi Sawada, Japan Meijer Gardens & Carl Hendrickson, United States Judith Scott, United States Sculpture Park. The Mitsuteru Ishino, Japan Terry Williams, Australia exhibition offers Norimitsu Kokubo, Japan Ai Yamamoto, Japan audiences a survey Petra Kuppers, United States Chun-shan (Sandie)Yi, Taiwan, USA of contemporary Neil Marcus, United States Hideaki Yoshikawa, Japan sculpture through artists whose work represents local, national and global perspectives on the experience of living with disability. Initially brought together because of a shared interest in well-known traditions for Disability Art in Japan, Meijer Gardens & DisArt staff began collaborating in 2015. Cornerstone to the exhibition is the Sister State relationship between the state of Michigan and the Shiga Prefecture, Japan—a region long celebrated for its commitment to artists with disabilities. As our exhibition is a survey of contemporary disability sculpture, it also celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Sister State relationship and expands globally in a dynamic collection of objects contextualized by both contemporary and legacy artists. Two Michigan artists act as counterpoints to Japanese colleagues, but this exhibition will also feature artists from across the United States as well as those from the United Kingdom and Australia. Of special note are works by the world-renowned artist Judith Scott. The exhibition coincides with DisArt’s Process and Presence season of events which includes a fashion show (September 22), lecture series (monthly) and an international conference (October 27-28). Visitors will be welcomed into the exhibition by several innovative accessibility measures designed carefully by DisArt and Meijer Gardens to encourage the full participation of guests, including audio description, altered installation practices and other digital resources. Process and Presence: Contemporary Disability Sculpture is made possible by Flagstar Foundation The Meijer Foundation Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation

Botanic and Sculpture Societies of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Media Sponsor Townsquare Radio Channels

Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts SCULPTURE EXHIBITION

A SEASONAL FAVORITE AT MEIJER GARDENS It is never lost on me how lucky staff are to be able to walk these grounds as part of our daily routines. Recently, during one of my walks, I came around the corner and overheard a young guest say, “Wow mom, that was my favorite part of the garden so far, what’s yours?” What a great question; “What’s your favorite part of Meijer Gardens?” I’ve been asked that question myself, quite regularly in fact, and I’ve thought about it a lot. What’s my favorite part of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park? That favorite place seems to change all the time. For a moment, it may have been that small area of the Woodland Shade Garden where the light was perfect and a lady’s slipper orchid effortlessly poked up through the hosta leaves. The next day, it was gone. More than once it’s been that spot on the very top of the Viewing Hill in the The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden as the sun comes up over the trees. This past winter, I distinctly remember being frozen in my tracks as I came around the corner on the wetlands boardwalk one snowy morning. A beautiful red fox was walking towards me from the other direction. We looked at each other for a moment and off into the woods he trotted. Seeing the outdoor sculpture collection change in light and atmosphere is a special delight in the spring, just as the first buds break on the trees. Another delight is the colorful sweeps of chrysanthemums and gourds in the Seasonal Display Greenhouse every October. Every autumn, Michigan’s Farm Garden is truly a special place with a distinct connection to Fred and Lena Meijer. The house is a three–quarter scale model of Lena (Rader) Meijer's childhood home. The century–old barn was moved here from its original site, and even won an award: “2005 Barn of the Year” by the Michigan Barn Preservation Network. The windmill is from the Rader family farm. It’s a place with so many great spaces, and so many great plants! Flora of all sorts can be found growing at the Michigan’s Farm Garden. The common persimmon, Diospyros virginiana, is a large fruit tree, native to the Eastern United States, and several mature trees are growing on the east end of the farm’s orchard. The small pale orange fruits are only about 1.5 inches across. These fruits need frost to ripen and typically aren’t ready until mid-October. There is a beautiful arbor, right next to the persimmon trees, covered in several varieties of Humulus

HORTICULTURE ESSAY

lupulus, better known as hops. Hops is famous for flavoring beer and has a long history of cultivation. It is also a beautiful vine that smells fantastic. Surrounding the house is a cutting garden, with a full assortment of perennials that are perfectly suited for cut flower arranging. There is also the beautiful installation of the many figurative sculptures that add a touch of romance to this space. Notice the bronze tree stumps. It was a common farming practice in Fred and Lena’s youth for farmers to construct their fences out of tree stumps. Sculptures like Lena Riding a Pig and Lena Milking a Cow are lighthearted examples of farm life in the 1930s. Lena learned to milk cows at a very young age. However, at the top of my favorite list is the heirloom vegetable garden. Over 150 different varieties of fruits, vegetables and herbs can be found at the farm and the largest concentration of these are in the vegetable garden. 22 types of tomatoes are grown here, with names like ‘Green Vernissage’, ‘Nature's Riddle’ and ‘Tlacalula’. They grow in every shape and size, displaying fruit in colorful combinations of green, purple, yellow and red. Several varieties of amaranth are grown in the garden. This ancient grain has been grown by people for over 8,000 years. Quinoa, sorghum and rice are other grains that can be found here along with other obscure favorites like broom corn, snake melon and dozens of herbs. It is truly amazing the number of plants tucked within this plot. Something special is happening this particular autumn that will help guests discover Michigan’s Farm Garden in a new way. As part of the Chrysanthemums and More! exhibition, we have two special evenings planned: October 16 and October 23. The Farm Garden will host food, drink and dance in celebration of all things local! A local food truck Everyday Chef & Wife and our own Balk Café (in a surprise pop-up location) will serve local fresh fare. The Balk Café pop-up will feature items from the new fall menu, Michigan local beer, hot cider and a specialty cocktail for adults. In the barn, a local string band will be playing, complete with an accompanying caller to help guide your steps! So, mark your calendars now for October 16 and October 23 and make the Michigan’s Farm Garden a seasonal favorite of yours. Essay by Steve LaWarre, Director of Horticulture

Visit the windmill, relocated from Lena (Rader) Meijer’s childhood home, at the Michigan’s Farm Garden. Photo by Dean Van Dis.

HORTICULTURE ESSAY

Dr. Siddhartha Mukherjee. Photo by Deborah Feingold.

AN EVENING WITH DR. SIDDHARTHA MUKHERJEE The Master Lecture Series PHYSICIAN AS WRITER LECTURE Tuesday, October 2 at 7 pm Speaker: Dr. Siddhartha Mukherjee We are delighted to present An Evening with Dr. Siddhartha Mukherjee as Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s second biennial Physician as Writer lecture. An accomplished author, researcher and physician, Dr. Mukherjee began his career as a Rhodes Scholar with degrees from Stanford University, the University of Oxford and Harvard Medical School. He is now a staff physician at Columbia University Medical Center and an Associate Professor of Medicine at Columbia University, where his laboratory is in the forefront of discovering new cancer treatments using innovative biological methods. Dr. Mukherjee’s breakthrough book, The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer, won the 2011 Pulitzer Prize for General Non-Fiction and was made into a celebrated multi-part documentary by Ken Burns for PBS. A book that “examines cancer with a cellular biologist’s precision, a historian’s perspective and a biographer’s passion,” 10

MASTER LECTURE SERIES

The Emperor of All Maladies was described by the Pulitzer Prize jury as “an elegant inquiry, at once clinical and personal.” It earned Dr. Mukherjee a place on TIME Magazine’s “100 Most Influential People” list for 2011. Dr. Mukherjee’s most recent book, The Gene: An Intimate History, takes on the critical question: “What becomes of being human when we learn to ‘read’ and ‘write’ our own genetic information?” It debuted at #1 on The New York Times best-seller list and was short-listed for the 2016 Royal Society Insight Investment Science Book Prize—known as the “Nobel Prize of science writing.” Dr. Mukherjee contributes articles regularly to publications including The New Yorker, The New York Times, Nature, The New Republic and The New England Journal of Medicine. Don’t miss out on what promises to be a riveting, thoughtprovoking evening as Dr. Mukherjee shares insights into his life and work as a writer, researcher and physician. Following the lecture, Dr. Mukherjee will engage in a question and answer session and sign copies of his books. FEE: Free for members, general admission for non-members. Space is limited. Registration required at meijergardens.org/calendar. Please direct any questions to Anna Wolff at awolff@meijergardens.org or call 616-974-5225. Captioning service will be provided. This lecture is made possible by generous anonymous donors.

Sculptor Bill Woodrow. Photo courtesy of Bill Woodrow.

AN EVENING WITH BILL WOODROW Bill Woodrow is regarded as one of Britain’s great living sculptors. He came of age during the height of Minimalism and Conceptualism, a time in which many artists rejected traditional methods. Reclaiming tradition, he has been an influential figure in a return to established materials, subjects and imagery as part of the New British Sculpture movement alongside Antony Gormley, Tony Cragg and Anish Kapoor. He is perhaps best known for his large-scale public work, Regardless of History, temporarily installed in London’s Trafalgar Square in 2000. This work, along with Listening to History, in the collection of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park since 2001, uses the image of a book as a symbol for a vessel of historical information. Woodrow proposes that although society may absorb knowledge, it rarely results in a change in behavior. In both works, he compels the viewer to learn from our collective history—a common theme in Woodrow’s practice.

In addition to a 50-year career, and a keen ability to create timelessly relevant artwork, Woodrow is an active beekeeper. He views the practice of caring for bees as a constant reminder of humanity’s fragility in the natural order of the world, another theme throughout his artistic practice. The bees are also a part of the process of his artwork, using pollen and wax to create unusual prints, and inspiration for a series of gilded sculptures. Join us for an opportunity to hear Bill Woodrow in conversation with our Chief Curator, Joseph Becherer, for the 13th annual C. Schoenknecht & W. Paul Sculpture lecture. Meet the artist to hear his insights, anecdotes and appreciate his artistic practice first-hand.

The Master Lecture Series C. SCHOENKNECHT & W. PAUL SCULPTURE LECTURE Tuesday, October 16 at 7 pm Speaker: Bill Woodrow

FEE: Free for members, general admission for non-members. Registration required at meijergardens.org/calendar. Please direct any questions to Anna Wolff at awolff@meijergardens.org or call 616-974-5225. Captioning service will be provided. This annual lecture is made possible by Charles Schoenknecht and Ward Paul.

MASTER LECTURE SERIES

Photo by William J. Hebert.

ENDOWING OUR FUTURE Since its debut in 1995, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park has attracted more than 11 million guests through its doors—more than the total number of people currently living in Michigan! Bringing joy to that many people requires dedicated staff and volunteers, of course, but it also requires strong and reliable financial support. The mission of Meijer Gardens—to promote the enjoyment, understanding and appreciation of gardens, sculpture, the natural environment and the arts—would not be possible without direct donations to Meijer Gardens, and support from the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation. You may be wondering, “What is the Foundation and how is it different from Meijer Gardens?” Although they are two separate organizations, they both serve to support the financial viability of Meijer Gardens. Here is a closer look at how your donations support our mission: • The sole mission of the Foundation is to build and maintain an endowment fund to support Meijer Gardens. Although Fred and Lena Meijer—and many other West Michigan donors— made Meijer Gardens a reality, it was ultimately determined that a single-purpose foundation was needed to help provide ongoing funding for Meijer Gardens. The Foundation secures funding through gifts and/or pledges, including pledges in estate plans. The resulting endowment distributes an annual percentage of its value, currently over $4 million, to Meijer Gardens 12

DEVELOPMENT/MEMBERSHIP

for annual operations. That distribution funds over 17% of the Gardens annual expenses. The balance of those expenses must be raised by Meijer Gardens. • Money raised by Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park supports the day-to-day operations of Meijer Gardens. Operational expenses include presenting annual and temporary exhibitions, maintaining gardens and facilities and offering a wide variety of educational programs. These funds are raised through events like the Great Gardens Party, Christmas Cabaret and by the 27,900 membership households and more than 1,000 individuals, corporations and foundations who support the Annual Fund. Occasionally, capital campaigns like the recent Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love campaign are implemented to provide funds for new and expanded facilities. Meijer Gardens and the Foundation work together in many ways. Both boards provide leadership. As an example, board members from both organizations were asked to financially support the capital campaign before it went public and we achieved 100% participation. The top priority of both organizations is stewardship, the careful and responsible management of funds entrusted to our care. Whether you direct your contribution to Meijer Gardens or to the Foundation, you can rest assured it will enable us to bring joy to millions of guests now and for generations to come.

THE GIFT OF MEMBERSHIP

Sam DeVries and Rachel Mraz pull winning raffle ticket. Photo by Tony Norkus.

RECORD-BREAKING GREAT GARDENS PARTY Nearly 500 guests gathered for the annual Great Gardens Party on May 9. In the process of Remembering Eileen DeVries, an 18-year member of the Board of Directors and past Great Gardens Party Committee Co-Chair, guests helped us net more than $280,000 in support of our mission! We tip our hats to our talented committee, generous table sponsors, event and raffle ticket purchasers, silent and live auction donors and bidders, and all who attended to honor Eileen. Next year’s event is May 8. Mark your calendar!

COVENANT LEARNING CENTER OPEN HOUSE Come share the excitement as we dedicate Meijer Gardens’ new Covenant Learning Center. See first-hand how the Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love capital campaign will impact our education offerings for students of all ages. You are invited to an Open House on Tuesday, October 9, 2018, anytime between 4–9 pm. A short dedication ceremony will take place at 4 pm. Meijer Gardens is open until 9 pm that evening so take a stroll around the Gardens and Sculpture Park before you explore the new Covenant Learning Center. Please reserve a spot by going online at bit.ly/FMGCLCOpenHouse. Or contact Samantha Thornton at sthornton@meijergardens.org, or call her at (616) 808-3609. We look forward to seeing you there.

IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE . . . CHRISTMAS CABARET We invite you to kick off the holiday season at our 2018 Christmas Cabaret. If you love meandering through the Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World exhibition, sipping a signature cocktail, dining on mouthwatering food prepared by our executive chef and listening to the strains of holiday music by members of the Grand Rapids Symphony, then Meijer Gardens is the place for you on Thursday, December 6! For more information, visit our website at www.meijergardens.org

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 7 will be mailed by December 14. You can now purchase online at www.meijergardens.org/ involved/membership/ or over the phone at 616-977-7689.

QUARTERLY TRIBUTES The following gifts were received between April 1 and June 30, 2018. Those honored or memorialized are shown in bold type, while the donors are in regular type.

IN HONOR Bob Blossfeld Stephen Auerbach Charles & Patricia Bloom Anne Blossfeld Darcy Blossfeld Don and Chris Blossfeld Jeanne Blossfeld Jim & Gladys Blossfeld Maureen Blossfeld William Blossfeld Robert & Suzanne Boucek M.J. Campbell Greg Carnevale & Diane Mahon Norman & Anita Christopher Keith & Margaret Cole Joy Deboer Carolyn Devries Carlton & Marilyn Failor Pablo & Nancy Gonzalez Deb Grow James & Carolyn Halbach Kelly Hecht Ben & Brooke Hjelle Nancy Hollowell Sue Ann Jabin Kenneth & Mary Ann Kelly Mary Knee Mona Livingston Carol Martin Chet* & Elaine* Maternowski Andrew Maternowski & Monica Randles Barbara McGuirl Tim Mills David & Elizabeth Mohan

Millicent Murphy Curtis & Donna Naser Richard & Marie Neil Julie Ondersma John Paalman Mark & Kate Pacyna Peter & Carroll Perez Shirley Plaska Dean & Elaine Salisbury Lauren Sherman Dan & Carol Springer Leslie Steffee Richard Stien Mark & Liz Stob Sandra Swanson James & Janet Watkins Susan Wold

Nate & Joyce French Robert & Jo Ann Landman Ken & Linda Larsen Roger & Joan Matthews Jim & Mary Nelson Charles & Patricia Parmenter Darrell Yeager Richard & Jane Zeaske

Dr. and Mrs. Robert Hyrdrick Dennis & Beverly Reid

John & Susanne Osmer Deb & Mark Posthumus

John VanderHaagen NAIFA—West Michigan

IN MEMORY Michael Bellah Patricia Bellah Tom Dalgleish Anonymous Josephine Kiel Tamara Dabney

Patrick Lasher Roger & Luanne Bleiler Chet & Elaine Maternowski David & Elizabeth Mohan Robert Nolan Mary Forslund

Emily Ritter Donald Ritter Tom VandenElst The Meijer Family Maxine Webb Steve & Colleen Elkins Kenneth & Sara Haines Kristel & Valentino Heinz-Ciullo Felicia Hollis William Wakefield * Deceased

Jack Landman John & Susan Bruckshaw Mary Forslund

DEVELOPMENT/MEMBERSHIP

The German tree brings joy to many during the Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World exhibition. Photo by Peter McDaniel.

ANNUAL EXHIBITION

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

Member Holiday Parties Party with Tree Lighting Ceremony, November 19, 6–8 pm Family Parties with Santa and Mrs. Claus November 25; December 2, 10 & 16, 6–8 pm Adult Party (18 and over) with cash bar November 26, 7–9 pm RSVP online at bit.ly/MemberHolidayParties18, rsvp@meijergardens.org, or call 616-974-5222.

EXTENDED HOLIDAY HOURS Entire facility is open until 9 pm December 17—22, and December 26—30 PLEASE NOTE: Meijer Gardens is CLOSED on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day

Santa Visits November 20 and 27, December 4, 11 and 18, 5–8 pm The Original Dickens Carolers November 20 and 27, December 4, 11 and 18, 6–8 pm Winter-Time Walks November 20–January 5, 2019 Tuesdays, 10:15 am (for preschool); and 11:15 am (for school age) and Saturdays, 11:15 am (for families) 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, wrap up the walk in a cozy spot with a winter-themed story time.

Rooftop Reindeer November 24, December 1, 8, 15, 22, 1–4 pm

Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World is made possible by

Spectrum Health 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 Railway Garden is sponsored by

CHRISTMAS AND HOLIDAY TRADITIONS AROUND THE WORLD November 20, 2018–January 6, 2019

Welcome to the holidays—to the season of joy! There’s no place to celebrate quite like Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Join us for an intimate look at how the world spreads joy across centuries and cultures.

Good tidings abound in Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World, our 24th annual exhibition and most joyful yet. The hallmark seasonal event for Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, and all of West Michigan, this year we take note of how our community joyfully commemorates the diverse, generations-old traditions that remain vibrant today. Awaiting you is a world of cultural celebrations, joyfully honored across an expansive 42 displays exploring folklore and fact, past and present. Amidst spectacular winter plantings discover the artistry of 27 adorned Christmas trees, 15 fascinating cultural displays and our beloved Railway Garden. Inside and out, Meijer Gardens shines— especially in the ambiance of more than 300,000 lights! In many cultures, the holidays bring people together in distinct and memorable ways that simply cannot be captured in a display. This year, we invite you to experience these joy-filled activities in a wondrous new film, Joy!, that explores the diverse festive fabric that is holiday life across our local community. Filmed in the Grand Rapids area over the last two years, this film is a slice of happiness, right here at home. It fittingly opens with our own Lena Meijer who, with family and friends, began this exhibition in 1995. Of proud German heritage, Lena and her friends are seen decorating the beautiful German tree—one of the most admired, influential holiday traditions. From there, we travel to the Sankta Lucia Pageant aglow in historic Saint Mark’s Episcopal church in downtown Grand Rapids, then onto the vibrant Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe at the Shrine of St. Francis Xavier & Our Lady of Guadalupe, followed by the warmth of the Menorah Lighting at city hall and a feast of food, music and song at Temple Emanuel. The film ends with a joyous celebration of the Dutch Sinterklaas Parade in the Kerstmarkt in neighboring Holland, Michigan. Although these unfolding, living traditions are just an introductory welcome to the breadth and depth of cultural life in West Michigan, they enhance our annual exhibition in extraordinary ways. Joy! will be shown continuously in the Hoffman Auditorium, so don’t miss it. Accompanying the visual spectacle at Meijer Gardens is carefully-researched, equally intriguing, informational signage. The BISSELL Corridor and our array of conservatories offer endless wonder and discovery, too. Inject even more joy into your season with our delightful tours, programs, classes and events like an evening with Santa and the Dickens Carolers on Tuesday, November 20, 27 and December 4, 11 and 18, or an afternoon with Santa’s reindeer on Saturday, November 24 and December 1, 8, 15 and 22. As ever, this promises to be a very special season at a very special place—your Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Come experience the joy with us, more than ever before. We are waiting for you.

ANNUAL EXHIBITION

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

Photo by Dean Van Dis.

PLANT SHOWS

KIDS’ TRAM

August 25–26 Saturday 12—5 pm, Sunday 11 am—5 pm

Saturday, October 6, 1:45 pm, 2:45 pm and Friday, October 19, 1:45 pm, 2:45 pm

DAHLIA SHOW

FEE: $4 adults, $2 kids Board the Kids’ tram for an engaging experience all about trees. Travel through the Sculpture Park and visit The Groves and come away with a new understanding of Michigan trees. Hop on and off at specific stops to participate in these kid-friendly activities: • Learn which trees are used to make baseball bats, • Learn why leaves change color. musical instruments and Popsicle sticks. • Have fun exploring sculptures that have • Use puppets to identify the creatures that live in trees. a connection to trees.

WEST MICHIGAN DAHLIA SOCIETY

FEE: Included with admission Enjoy a stunning assortment of dahlia flowers, with some so bright they seem to glow. Find a flower the size of a dinner plate and a pompon dahlia that forms a perfect sphere. View creative floral arrangements as well. Dahlia Society members will be on hand to answer questions and provide tips on how to grow these beautiful flowers.

October 6–7 Saturday, 10 am–5 pm; Sunday, 11 am–5 pm

FALL BONSAI SHOW

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

TREE-MENDOUS TREES KIDS’ TRAM TOURS

October 13–14 Saturday, 10 am–5 pm; Sunday, 11 am–5 pm

HERB & GOURD FEST

MIDWEST MICHIGAN HERB ASSOCIATION AND MICHIGAN GOURD SOCIETY

FEE: Included with admission Discover a variety of ways to use herbs and gourds in this annual fall event. A variety of culinary herbs will be featured including hops, the 2018 “Herb of the Year.” Discover the health benefits that herbs provide and experience their wonderful fragrance. Kids can participate in a fun art activity with herbs and make their own seed tape to plant in a pot or in the garden next spring. Handmade herbal gifts will be available to purchase. In addition, Michigan Gourd Society members will display gourds, tools and supplies. Watch gourd artists at work, demonstrating how to create gourd art using locally available supplies. Visit the touchable gourds section and try playing a gourd instrument. Purchase decorated gourds or buy an unfinished gourd and create your own art at home.

2018 LOESCHNER ART COMPETITION

Photo by Dean Van Dis.

The annual Ray and Nancy Loeschner Art Competition is open to artists working in two-dimensional format including photography. Applications and further information, please visit MeijerGardens.org/award. Online and mailed submissions will be accepted. Deadline is Friday, October 26, 2018.

EVENTS

EVENTS THE RICHARD & HELEN DEVOS JAPANESE GARDEN

QUARTERLY BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP

LENA MEIJER CHILDREN’S GARDEN

SUNDAYS: September 16, October 21, 1–4 pm, Weather Permitting

September 25 Tuesday, 1–2:30 pm

READ & EXPLORE: ART AND GARDENS BOOK GROUP

September 24–October 25 Mondays and Wednesdays; 1:30 pm and 2:30 pm Tuesdays and Thursdays; 10:15 am and 11:15 am

INSIDE THE JAPANESE TEAHOUSE FEE: Included with admission Experience the tranquil ambience and exquisite architecture of our authentic Japanese Teahouse. Take special note of the master carpentry, contrasting woods, patterns and textures and numerous distinctive details. This opportunity is included with admission on a first-come, first-served basis, weather permitting. Guests will be asked to remove their shoes, so please plan accordingly.

FEE: Included with admission Join us for what will surely be a fascinating and in-depth discussion of Dr. Siddhartha Mukherjee’s The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer. Dr. Mukherjee’s book is the 2011 winner of the Pulitzer Prize for general nonfiction and has been described as “A profoundly humane ‘biography’ of cancer.” Following the book group discussion, plan for an evening of engaging insights on Tuesday, October 2, when Dr. Mukherjee will be the featured speaker at our biennial Physician as Writer lecture. See page 10 for lecture registration details. Limited to 20 adults. RSVP to 616-975-3144 or skilroy@meijergardens.org.

MICHIGAN’S FARM GARDEN Saturday and Sunday, September 8–9, 1-4 pm

HEIRLOOM TOMATOES

FEE: Included with admission Join us for a flavorful weekend focused on heirloom tomatoes. Learn why tomatoes are a healthy choice and the best ways to enjoy them. Participate in family activities such as a family tomato relay or terrific tomato toss. Sample many different tomato varieties and vote for your top tomato.

Saturday and Sunday, October 13–14, 1-4 pm

GIANT PUMPKINS

FEE: Included with admission Discover giant pumpkins on display at Michigan’s Farm Garden. Weighing in at hundreds of pounds, these pumpkins will amaze kids and adults alike. Learn all about pumpkins as you sort varieties and answer quiz questions at the Pumpkin Discovery Cart. Or try your hand at a pumpkin bean bag toss and play a unique pumpkin game—“Which Vine is Mine?”—to learn about how pumpkins grow.

“FALL”-INSPIRED STORYTIME

FEE: Included with admission Join us for fall-inspired fun! Experience how awesome autumn is in the Children’s Garden with interactive stories like Going on a Leaf Hunt, Fall Is Not Easy, Jaime Planted an Acorn and The Busy Little Squirrel! Recommended for preschoolers.

November 20, 2018— January 5, 2019 Preschool-Ready Walks (Ages 5 and under) Tuesdays and Thursdays; 10:15 am School-aged Walks (Ages 6 and up) Tuesdays and Thursdays; 11:15 am Family Walks (All ages) Saturdays; 11:15 am

WINTER-TIME WALKS

FEE: Included with admission Winter in the Children’s Garden can be chilly, but fun! Find the walk session that is best for you and your little winter explorers, bundle up and join us on an outdoor interactive discovery walk to investigate the Children’s Garden for all ages in new ways. Wrap up the walk in a cozy spot with a winter-time walk-themed storytime.

EVENTS

EVENTS AND EXHIBITIONS

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

SUMMER YOGA CLASS LAST YOGA SESSION OF THE SEASON Saturday: September 15, 9—10 am

OUTDOOR YOGA

FEE: $7 members, $17 non-members INSTRUCTOR: Dean Jeffery Join us for a refreshing and meditative session of yoga with well-known instructor, Dean Jeffery. This class will occur outdoors in The Sculpture Park on the American Horse plaza, weather permitting. Open to all levels and ages, bring a yoga mat and dress for the weather. Register at MeijerGardens.org/calendar.

Photo by John Harag

FALL BUS TRIP Wednesday, October 10, 8 am–9 pm

AN ARTFUL DAY IN DETROIT

FEE: $185 members, $205 non-members Enjoy a leisurely day filled with art and history in Detroit. Begin your day exploring the Detroit Institute of Arts, one of the largest and most significant art collections in the United States. Encyclopedic in nature, it features impressive holdings from ancient Greece to present day. Not to be missed are the magnificent 19th and 20th century paintings from Mary Cassatt, Georgia O’Keefe, Winslow Homer, Pablo Picasso, Vincent Van Gogh and Claude Monet. In addition to modernist works, there are many remarkable 15th, 16th and 17th century masters represented, including Jan van Eyck, Pieter Bruegel the Elder, Peter Paul Rubens, Albrecht Durer CANCELLATION POLICY and Rembrandt van Rijn; truly something for everyone! After Withdraw from a class at least 30 days in advance, a refund is issued minus a $5 processing fee. Withdraw 7 to 29 days in lunch on your own, meet the group for a guided highlights advance and receive a 50% refund. Less than 7 days, no refund. Call 616-975-3147 for class cancellations due to severe weather. tour with a knowledgeable docent. With your remaining time, stop by the current exhibition Lost & Found: Photographs from the DIA’s Collection featuring vernacular photography. Vernacular photography is considered by museums and collectors as an “accidental” art form created by unknown and often untrained photographers. It speaks to past eras, people and place with a naïve or unintentionally artistic approach. After your day at the DIA, get back on the bus and head to the David Whitney Mansion, built in 1890, and now on the National Register of Historic Places. This 52-room mansion features an exterior of pink jasper, an original elevator and numerous Tiffany glass windows. While exploring the mansion with your private tour guide, sip a glass of champagne and imagine life in the Gilded Age. After your tour, retire to the music room and take a seat beneath the Tiffany window of St. Cecelia at the piano for an elegant four-course meal to finish your day. Dinner is ordered tableside without substitutions: tomato basil soup, heirloom vegetable salad, your choice of premium entrée, finished with a duet of mini pastries. Fee includes transportation, a snack, admission, two guided tours, one glass of champagne, four-course dinner and all gratuities. Register at meijergardens.org/calendar, or call 616-975-3184 or 616-975-3147. 18

EVENTS AND EXHIBITIONS

EVENTS AND EXHIBITIONS LENA MEIJER CHILDREN’S GARDEN

September 14—January 6, 2019

PROCESS AND PRESENCE: CONTEMPORARY DISABILITY SCULPTURE

ARTPRIZE: Wed., September 19—Sun., October 7

The exhibition offers audiences a survey of contemporary Disability sculpture through artists whose work represents local, national and global perspectives on the lived experience of disability.

PROGRAMMING Exhibition programs are drop-in and registration is not required. Please direct questions to Anna Wolff at 616-974-5225.

Saturday, October 6 1–4 pm

ARTIST DEMONSTRATIONS

FALL FAMILY DAY

FEE: Included with admission See process and presence first hand! Observe and interact with an artist in the exhibition before or after viewing the artwork in the galleries. Each artist will be working on a piece similar to their completed artwork on display in the exhibition. Feel free to take a seat and enjoy watching an artist at work or get a bit closer and ask the artist questions directly.

FEE: Included with admission Visit the Children’s Garden for lots of fall family fun. Activities include something for all your senses—Press and Pound Color Banners, Autumn-themed Stories, Tree Vest Craft and an “I-Spy” Naturalist Walk about trees.

Photo by Dean Van Dis.

Saturday, September 15 , 11 am–12 pm Norimitsu Kokubo

Sunday, October 14, 1–2 pm

September 21–October 28

CHRYSANTHEMUMS AND MORE! See page 5 of Seasons for details. Photo by Erin Zacek.

Friday, October 19 10 am–12 pm (Parade at 10:15 and 11:15 am)

HALLOWEE-ONES

FEE: Included with admission Get creative at this special event designed for our youngest visitors. Dress your child as a sculpture, mammal, fish, insect, bird, tree, flower, geologist, or any other way that highlights something about the Children’s Garden. Participate in a costume parade and listen to Halloween-themed stories. Celebrate Halloween with your wee-ones. No tricks, no treats, just fun!

PROGRAMMING FALL BONSAI SHOW OCTOBER 6–7 SATURDAY, 10 AM–5 PM; SUNDAY, 11 AM–5 PM FEE: Free. See page 5.

HERB & GOURD FEST OCTOBER 13–14 SATURDAY, 10 AM–5 PM; SUNDAY, 11 AM–5 PM FEE: Included with admission. See page 5.

GIANT PUMPKINS SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13–14

FEE: Included with admission. See page 5.

MUM DAY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 14, 1–4 PM

FEE: Included with admission. See page 5.

TUESDAYS AT THE FARM TUESDAY, OCTOBER 16 AND 23, 5–8:30 PM

FEE: Included with admission. See page 5.

BALK CAFÉ

Photo by Erin Zacek.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Withdraw from a class at least 30 days in advance, a refund is issued minus a $5 processing fee. Withdraw 7 to 29 days in advance and receive a 50% refund. Less than 7 days, no refund. Call 616-975-3147 for class cancellations due to severe weather.

Come celebrate seasonal change in the Balk Café. Enjoy the fall colors, a new autumn menu and some old favorites. On September 17th, our new fall menu will be unveiled featuring some fabulous locally sourced seasonal products along with Michigan craft beers. Our selection will include seasonal brews from all over the Great Lakes State. Come savor a taste of the café Mon.–Sat. 9 am–5 pm, Sunday 11 am–5 pm or late Tuesday nights till 9 pm.

Wesley Devries

CURATOR’S LECTURE

Sunday, November 4, 2 pm Dr. Lisa VanArragon FEE: Included with admission Join Dr. Lisa VanArragon as she interprets works by many of the artists in the exhibition. She will explore themes of disability cultural identity through the artistic methods, meaning and materials present in the galleries. This lecture will be closed captioned.

GALLERY CHAT

Wednesday, September 26, 1–2 pm Chun-shan (Sandie)Yi, Artist Sandie Yi is both an artist and activist. Stop by the gallery to view her artwork and listen to her speak about how she envisions her own body as an artistic medium for advocacy, creativity and identity. This chat is informal—the artist will be stationed near her artworks and available for conversation.

SPECIAL EVENT—FILM SCREENING: ART21 EPISODE 9: SAN FRANCISCO BAY Tuesday, November 6, 7 pm

FEE: Included with admission In the latest installment of the Peabody-awardwinning series on art happening now in the 21st century, several artists in the San Francisco Bay area are highlighted for their thoughtful and critical practice. Among them are several artists working with the Center for Creative Growth, a disability arts organization also featured in the exhibition Process and Presence: Contemporary Disability Sculpture. The film will be closed captioned. Register at MeijerGardens.org/calendar or direct any questions to Anna Wolff at awolff@ meijergardens.org or call 616-974-5225. CLASSES

CL ASSES

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

REGISTER ONLINE AT MEIJERGARDENS.ORG/CALENDAR Direct questions to classes@meijergardens.org. Pre-registration and pre-payment required. Non-member class fees include admission to Meijer Gardens for class participants on the day of the class. Fee for extra participant in Child/Adult pairs classes: $18 each member, $22 each non-member.

Mondays, September 10, 17, 24, October 1 and 8 (Adults) 6–8 pm

LANDSCAPE FOR LIFE*

INSTRUCTOR: Rebecca Marquardt FEE: $125 members, $135 non-members Discover how to bring nature back to your yard in aesthetically pleasing ways that also benefit the “ecosystem services” that nature provides—controlling erosion, pollinating flowers, cleaning the air and waterways, sheltering wildlife and providing beauty. Whether you are interested in adding native plants into existing planting beds, incorporating water harvesting techniques, or converting your whole yard to a purer landscape, we’ve got you covered! This series is based on a program developed by the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, US Botanic Garden and the American Society for Landscape Architects and tailored for West Michigan by landscape architect and native plant enthusiast, Rebecca Marquardt. The class will include lecture and studio time as well as a field trip outside the classroom to discover some of the sustainable practices and plants at Meijer Gardens. Discover how careful observation will reveal the “sense of place” for your unique property, how to analyze your site and learn creative solutions to problems through case studies and design styles. Learn how to landscape for life while exploring a variety of design, installation and care techniques to maximize ecosystem services for your yard. Class is limited to 20 students.

Tuesday, September 11 (Adults) 6–8 pm

SCULPTED PORCELAIN NECKLACE

FEE: $50 members, $60 non-members INSTRUCTOR: Maren Herman Experience the unique properties of porcelain, an amazingly durable yet beautifully delicate clay. Learn porcelain forming techniques and structured design. Then personalize 4-5 pieces to be used as a necklace. Sterling silver chain included. Pieces will be fired and ready for pick-up two weeks from the day of the class.

(*) Applies toward MSU Extension Master Gardener education credit.

Saturday, September 15 (Age 7–16 with Adult) 10 am–12 pm

FAMILY MINDFULNESS IN THE JAPANESE GARDEN

FEE: $10 member child, $15 member adult $13 non-member child, $18 non-member adult INSTRUCTORS: from Grand Rapids Center for Mindfulness Join us as the Grand Rapids Center for Mindfulness youth teachers lead an introductory family workshop, open to all who are interested in learning a little bit about the practice of mindfulness. Mindfulness can be a useful skill to help bring more clarity and calm into our lives. Come and explore mindfulness outside at Meijer Gardens! The workshop will include a variety of mindfulness activities including a mindful nature walk and outdoor tai chi exercises. We will finish with a fall art activity to take home at the end of class.

Saturday, September 15 (Adults) 10 am–12 pm

FALL ZENTANGLE

FEE: $30 members, $40 non-members INSTRUCTOR: Marjorie Goosen Learn simple techniques to create beautiful images from structured patterns, taught by a certified Zentangle instructor. Then, weather permitting, visit the Japanese Garden for inspiration to create a unique and lovely mandala—a symbolic geometric design. All levels welcome. Materials provided.

Tuesday, September 18 (Adults) 5–7 pm

INTRODUCTION TO FALL LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY

FEE: $30 members, $40 non-members INSTRUCTOR: Tabitha Blanski of Inkling Pictures Examine a number of tricks to keep in mind and ways to add interest and complexity to your images of autumn’s vibrant color. All levels welcome. Tripod recommended, but not required.

Saturday, September 22 (Adults) 10 am–12 pm

FALL TREE IDENTIFICATION

CANCELLATION POLICY

CLASSES

FEE: $30 members, $40 non-members INSTRUCTOR: Kim Bradley Davidson Get an up-close look at deciduous and coniferous trees. Learn about the tree characteristics that aid in fall identification, including bud arrangement, leaf shape and color, fruit, seed and bark texture. Then venture outside to try your hand at tree identification using a simple dichotomous key booklet, included in the price of the class.

CL ASSES

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

Saturday, October 13 (Age 6-15 with Adult) 10 am–12 pm OR 1–3 pm

GRANDMA AND ME: FIBER ART

Saturday, October 6 (Adults) 10 am–1 pm

BEGINNING BONSAI

INSTRUCTOR: Steve Jetzer FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members Learn how to select a tree with bonsai potential, an appropriate pot and the best potting mix. Discover which tools are indispensable and learn wiring and pruning techniques. Receive a bonsai tree and work in a friendly atmosphere under the expert guidance of the instructor to begin training your bonsai. Class is limited to eight participants.

Thursday, October 11 (Adults) 5–7:30 pm

GLASS FUSING 101

INSTRUCTOR: Gloria Badiner FEE: $75 members $85 non-members This instructional session will acquaint the students with proper use of tools, vocabulary, glass selection and layout for a perfect firing. Firing schedules will be included in a handout. Each participant will make a trio of small sun catchers to experiment with technique. Everything is included. Projects will be fired for you and may be picked up at a later date.

Saturday, October 13 (Adults) 9:30 am–12 pm

FABULOUS NATIVE PLANTS FOR FALL GARDENS*

INSTRUCTOR: Amy Heilman FEE: $30 members, $40 non-members Add more color and interest to your autumn garden by incorporating native plants. Discover trees, shrubs, wildflowers and grasses that produce attractive flowers, fruit and seeds that not only add beauty to the landscape but also benefit wildlife. Learn which plants are a perfect match for your garden’s soil type, moisture and sunlight requirements. Also receive tips on how and when to collect seeds in the fall. Then journey outdoors to see some of these native plants in Meijer Gardens’ woodland and meadow.

INSTRUCTOR: Becky Baker FEE: $18 member child, $18 member adult $22 non-member child, $22 non-member adult Work with fabric, colorful yarn and wire to create an abstract, 3-dimensional work of art based on the works of Judith Scott. As a class, take a walk through the galleries to find inspiration in the exhibition Process and Presence: Contemporary Disability Sculpture, then learn to create an armature from rigid objects bound together. Use multiple layers of yarn and fabric wound around your armature to complete your sculpture. This is an inclusive class for individuals with or without disabilities, along with an adult, and is a collaborative effort with Artists Creating Together.

Friday, October 19 (Ages 5–11 with Adult) 6:30–8 pm

NOCTURNAL NATURE WALK

FEE: $18 member child, $18 member adult $22 non-member child, $22 non-member adult Join us for a night walk in the gardens, led by Sally Triant of Grow Wise Learning, and explore nature trails and the variety of habitats found here. Bring a flashlight and search for some of the creatures that call this place home and are active at all hours. We will learn about different diurnal, nocturnal and crepuscular creatures as we wander and wonder about nature at night. Receive a night hike journal, including a passport for the stations visited on the hike.

Saturday, October 20 (Adults) 7:30–10:30 am

INTRODUCTION TO BLACK AND WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY

INSTRUCTOR: Dusty Brown FEE: $40 members, $50 non-members Investigate the beauty of black and white photography. Listen to an informative lecture before heading out to capture the Japanese garden in the best light. Focus on light and shapes and experiment with shadows. Proper exposure, composition and achieving the best black and white images will be covered, along with the computer programs Lightroom and Photoshop. Time will be spent inside the classroom and outside. Tripod recommended, but not required. Dress for the weather.

Saturday, October 20 (Adults) 10 am–2 pm

ART JOURNALING II: THE ADVENTURE CONTINUES!

INSTRUCTOR: Katie Reitemeier FEE: $65 members, $75 non-members Whether you’re a beginning or seasoned Art Journaler, this class will enhance your skills in building expressive backgrounds, incorporating pop-ups and pockets, using gel plate and stamp printing techniques and incorporating easy, stylish hand-lettering. Join us for fresh prompts and playful discoveries! Take home a 60-page journal for your ongoing practice. All supplies included.

Tuesdays, October 23 AND 30 (Adults) 6–8 pm

INTRODUCTION TO BOTANICAL ILLUSTRATION

INSTRUCTOR: Olivia Mackay FEE: $65 members, $75 non-members Get introduced to the art of plant illustration in a relaxed atmosphere. Learn how to observe plants and flowers, then using watercolors and micro pens, transfer what you see to paper. This class will provide a foundation for future exploration of botanical illustration techniques. All materials provided. This class is for beginners. CLASSES

CL ASSES

Monday, November 5 (Adults) 4–6 pm

Tuesday, November 13 (Adults) 5–7:30 pm

Saturday, December 1 (Ages 8+ with Adult) 10 am–12 pm

FALL FLORAL DESIGN

FUSED GLASS DICHROIC JEWELRY

GRANDMA AND ME: CREATE A PUTZ HOUSE WITH NATURAL MATERIALS

INSTRUCTOR: Mandi Stade FEE: $55 members, $65 non-members Receive helpful tips on flower arranging techniques. The instructor will demonstrate three separate arrangements. For the last arrangement, you will follow along step by step to create a beautiful fall arrangement in a reusable 5½ x 5½ inch square white birch container.

Tuesday, November 6 (Age 3 with Adult) 10–11:30 am

GRANDMA AND ME: SHAPES AND SCULPTURE

FEE: $18 member child, $18 member adults $22 non-member child, $22 non-member adults Come explore the wonderful world of shapes! Enjoy various centers in the classroom focused on shape and color. Then, create paper magnifying glasses and play “I Spy” as you go on a shape hunt to identify various shapes in sculpture and nature. Work together to recreate the sculpture Mad Mom using giant colored cardboard shapes. Make your own sculpture using peanut butter clay, cereal and M&M’s. This class is for age three only with an adult.

INSTRUCTOR: Gloria Badiner FEE: $80 members, $90 non-members Students will layer dichroic glasses with their choice of thin colored art glasses to create unique 4-piece set of earrings, pin, pendant and beaded necklace. All materials are supplied. Attention will be paid to proper layout for a stunning finished set of jewelry. Projects will be fired and may be picked up at a later date.

Tuesday, November 13 (Adults) 6–7:30 pm

MAKE A STRESS REDUCING DESK GARDEN

FEE: $45 members, $55 non-members More than just a decoration, plants improve air quality, lower stress, add natural color and offer a visually meditative effect to your work space. Learn the many benefits of plants then plant a desk-friendly planter for a happier you!

Saturday, November 17 (Adults) 10 am–12 pm

POP-UP HOLIDAY CARDS

Saturday, November 10 (Adults) 10 am–1 pm

BLOCK PRINTING OPEN STUDIO

INSTRUCTOR: Nancy Hart FEE: $60 members, $70 non-members Bring ideas, sketches or inspirational images and we will supply two carving blocks per person— that’s four sides to carve-and a variety of paper and ink. Use our carving tools and brayers, and receive a mini-lesson on techniques, composition and weight variation, if needed. All levels are welcome. Limited to ten students. 22

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

CLASSES

INSTRUCTOR: Jean Barber FEE: $25 members, $35 non-members Start by picking a holiday theme from one of the Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World displays. Then learn the basics of pop-up card making using templates to create a twisted pop-up, box-type or flip-up card. Create two to three cards with a pop-up message. Also learn to create a 12"x 12" card layout with a waterfall feature. Leave with two to three templates to use again for future card making. All materials provided.

FEE: $18 member child, $18 member adult $22 non-member child, $22 non-member adult Visit the Railway Garden and be inspired by artist Paul Busse’s creative use of natural materials. Look for replicas of more than 30 Grand Rapids-area landmarks like the Ada Covered Bridge, Fifth Third Ballpark and Voigt House, as well as some famous buildings from around the world. Then work together using natural materials to decorate a 3-D cardboard and paper mâché house, 8½ inches tall.

Tuesday, December 4 (Adults) 6–8 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!

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

GRANDMA AND ME: CLAY SANTONS AND OTHER FRENCH TRADITIONS

FEE: $18 member child, $18 member adult $22 non-member child, $22 non-member adult Discover the role santons (little saints) play in traditional French nativity scenes, participate in a brief scavenger hunt while viewing the exhibition, then create your own santons using clay, natural materials, fabric and your own creativity! Have fun with this delightful and intriguing Christmas tradition.

CANCELLATION POLICY

HOLIDAY GIFT SHOW Saturday, November 3 9 am–5 pm

Members and public welcome. Free admission to show. Members receive a 10% discount when presenting their membership cards.

Save the date, make your list and check it twice. Our eclectic mix of perennial favorites and intriguing new artisans makes this one-day show your one-stop shopping destination. It’s the must-shop event of the season and it happens one day only, and only at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. This year’s Holiday Gift Show has something for everyone on your list, so come early and make a day of it. This season’s curated lineup includes more than 30 local and regional artists, craftsman, authors and vendors chosen for their limited edition home décor, gardening gear, jewelry, books, music, toys, culinary wares, eats and wines. New selections to Meijer Gardens include Warmies® plush toys, wraps and slippers. When heated in the microwave, these herbalinfused cozy creations release the relaxing scent of lavender. Back by popular demand are Creations by Debbie artisan jewelry; Annabelle Noel Designs for the home and garden; Joy Susan vegan leather handbags and Granite Accents natural home accessories like lazy Susans, coasters and campfire sticks. Children’s authors will also be on hand to sign books and foodies can feast on our savory selection of edible gifts, from cookies and candies to bottled wines and wine accessories. Plan to stay for our afternoon wine tastings and the opportunity to mingle with wine connoisseurs. As always, gift-wrapping is our treat—and you may even go home with one of our giftable giveaways. You need not be present to win, so enter when you arrive at the show. Winners will be contacted. After you shop, refuel in the Balk Café and then tour the new Covenant Learning Center. Our docents are at the ready to show you around this exciting addition to our growing campus. Even our social media is getting in the holiday spirit. In the weeks leading up to the show, follow @MeijerGardens on Facebook® and Instagram® for the chance to win one of four $25 gift certificates redeemable at the Holiday Gift Show. To enter, just post your favorite photograph taken at Meijer Gardens with the hashtag #MeijerGardens. Winners will be announced the last week of October. The Holiday Gift Show is free to everyone—the more, the merrier! More shoppers do join us every year, so come early for the best selection of gifts and parking spots. Members of Meijer Gardens enjoy a 10% discount on their purchases, too. We look forward to seeing—and spoiling—you on November 3rd. HOLIDAY GIFT SHOW

Fred and Lena Meijer in the Milan, Italy studio of Arnaldo Pomodoro in 1999. Chuck Heiney Photography.

A National Treasure: Fred Meijer, His Collection and Legacy

Friday, February 1—Sunday, August 25, 2019

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

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HORTICULTURE EXHIBITION

AUTUMN 2018 Volume 9, Issue 4

A National Treasure: Fred Meijer, His Collection and Legacy is made possible by

Would you prefer to receive Seasons via email? If so, please contact the Development/Membership Office at 616-977-7689 or membership@meijergardens.org.

Frederik (Fred) G.H. Meijer (1919-2011) was among the most extraordinary art collectors of the last half century, assembling one of the most important collections of Modern and Contemporary sculpture in the world. Highly unique among collectorphilanthropists, his collection was never a private endeavor and then gifted to the public but created directly for the enjoyment of the public through what became Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Timed to celebrate the centenary of Meijer’s birth and enlightened spirit of cultural good, this exhibition follows the trajectory of his growth as a collector from representational, often whimsical, imagery to his fascination with the animalier tradition, peaking with Nina Akamu’s American Horse. From here, Meijer grew to embrace iconic and challenging masterworks from Auguste Rodin and Henry Moore to Magdalena Abakanowicz to Anish Kapoor. Drawing on a series of highly significant loans and pivotal works from the collection, Meijer’s passion for sculpture and commitment to “build a world class collection” will be clearly articulated. In addition, numerous legacy gifts from Fred and Lena Meijer by George Minne (Belgian 1866–1941) and El Anatsui (b. 1944, Ghana) will be publicly presented for the first time.

1000 East Beltline Avenue NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525

FEB 1–AUG 25

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

UPCOMING