Seasons - Spring 2019 {Vol. 10 Issue 2} by Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

ANNUAL EXHIBITION

SCULPTURE EXHIBITION

HORTICULTURE ESSAY

Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming

A National Treasure: Fred Meijer, His Collection and Legacy

A New Kind of Garden

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Spring 2019 Volume 10, Issue 2

MASTER LECTURE SERIES

Kelly D. Norris: Plants with Style

A NATIONAL TREASURE: FRED MEIJER, HIS COLLECTION AND LEGACY

SECCHIA GARDEN LECTURE

A PLACE OF JOY

The wonderful and wonder-filled journey that is Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park continues. Fred and Lena Meijer have made possible a place of joy. The journey continues because Lena Meijer, the extended Meijer family and you, our members and supporters, warmly embrace our mission. We are blessed with the way you bring your family and friends to experience our exhibitions and permanent collections and the way you support us through your membership and gifts. You are sincerely appreciated.

FRED & DOROTHY FICHTER BUTTERFLIES ARE BLOOMING

The highly visible expansion of Meijer Gardens through the Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love project is a reflection of the commitment so many have made to our mission. The new Welcome Center is taking shape and starting to rise out of the ground. The new concession building, Outdoor Picnic Pavilion, and parking lots are also all under construction. I’m often asked when it will all be “done.” The serious answer is “never.” Meijer Gardens will never be done. The facilities, gardens and art collection will always be growing and therefore always be new. We like to talk about the time when current projects will be “ready.” It is a concept we embraced during the creation of The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden. Our designer, Hoichi Kurisu, constantly talked about the garden ever-changing and growing and would never say it would be done. He taught us how to create it and make it ready for all to enjoy. Meijer Gardens is fortunate to have an extraordinary amount of physical assets in the form of facilities, gardens, artwork and materials for exhibitions. But there are two things that are far more important than our physical assets. The first is our people. We are very fortunate to have a professional staff that dedicates their careers to the advancement of our mission. We are also exceedingly blessed with 950 active and energetic volunteers who generously give of their time and talent to serve and make the lives of our members and guests better. The second is the experiences and relationships built. Fred Meijer taught us this over and over again. He would often visit Meijer Gardens yet never find the time to experience many of our exhibitions, gardens or sculptures. He would spend hours talking with people and building relationships while surrounded by some of the finest objects in the world. He and Lena enthusiastically gifted these assets, so people could come out and experience joy and build relationships.

It takes very talented people to create the new facilities we are building. We are grateful to be partnering with Tod Williams, Billie Tsien Architects, Progressive Architects and Engineers (PAE) and Owen-AmesKimball (OAK). Tod Williams, Billie Tsien Architects have designed world class buildings such as the Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia, Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment at Princeton University and are the architects for the new Obama Presidential Center in Chicago. PAE and OAK have been trusted and valued partners since the beginning of Meijer Gardens. The talented people that make up these firms are helping us create the fantastic new facilities. Doing two different things in the same place, at the same time, is very difficult. Yet, that is exactly what we are doing in our parking lots. We want a new, expanded, more accessible and more beautiful parking lot in nearly the same place as our current parking lot. It is impossible to do this without some disruption. We are very appreciative of everyone’s understanding during the expansion. Please continue to enjoy the close-up view of our new facilities being created. David S. Hooker President and CEO, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Gratefully,

BONSAI SHOW

A NEW KIND OF GARDEN

Another important asset we are in the process of acquiring is a new sculpture. Jaume Plensa is creating a piece titled Utopia, to be placed in the Garden Pavilion room of the new Welcome Center. This extraordinarily beautiful and monumental sculpture will cover the four walls of the Garden Pavilion. The object will proudly display the ideals behind our goal of welcoming all people to Meijer Gardens.

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

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

EARLY HOURS FOR MEMBERS Saturday, 8 am–9 am Sunday, 9 am–11 am

PRESIDENT AND CEO David Hooker

The first weekend of each month, Meijer Gardens members can take advantage of earlier open hours. The Gift Shop, James & Shirley Balk Café and Library open at normal hours.

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

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

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

HONORARY MEMBER OF SCULPTURE COMMITTEE

ANNUAL EXHIBITION

FRED & DOROTHY FICHTER BUTTERFLIES ARE BLOOMING A NATIONAL TREASURE: FRED MEIJER, HIS COLLECTION AND LEGACY HORTICULTURE ESSAY

A NEW KIND OF GARDEN ORGANIZATIONAL HIGHLIGHT

TAKING SHAPE THIS SPRING SEASONAL HIGHLIGHT

BLOOMING WITH GREAT EXPECTATIONS MASTER LECTURE SERIES

PLANTS WITH STYLE DEVELOPMENT / MEMBERSHIP

GREAT GARDENS PARTY

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

BUTTERFIES ARE BLOOMING TO SUMMER CAMPS Cover: The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden Cherry Tree Promenade overlooking the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory. Photo by Peter McDaniel.

CURRENT EXHIBITIONS / ATTRACTIONS

1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 © 2019 Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Seasons is published four times per year for members. Please contact membership@meijergardens.org if you prefer to receive Seasons via email. If you would like to comment on our content, please call membership at 616-977-7689.

4–5

SCULPTURE EXHIBITION

Miner S. and Mary Ann Keeler

Spring 2019 Volume 10, Issue 2 March 2019—May 2019

CONTENT

BOARD of DIRECTORS

A National Treasure: Fred Meijer, His Collection and Legacy MAR 1—APR 30, Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming FEB 1—AUG 25,

UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS / ATTRACTIONS

JUN—AUG,

Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens JUL—AUG, Tuesday Evening Music Club SEPT 20, 2019—JAN 5, 2020 Sculpture Exhibition

#MeijerGardens MeijerGardens.org

6–7 8–9 10 11 12 – 13 14 – 15 16 – 23

A colorful Birdwing butterfly rests on a plant. This is just one of many butterflies you will see during the exhibition. Photo by Ann Smith.

ANNUAL EXHIBITION

MEMBER HIGHLIGHTS: Botanic and Sculpture Societies Event By invitation only. Wednesday, April 24, 6–8 pm. Night of the Butterflies These members-only events provide the perfect opportunity for you to view the Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming exhibition. Join us from 6–8 pm at one of these family parties: Mondays, March 4, March 11, or March 25, Sundays, March 10, or March 17. A party for adults (18 & over) is from 7–9 pm on March 18. Go to bit.ly/BABmember19 to RSVP or MeijerGardens.org/butterflies for more information.

New This Year! Open Late Nights: April 1–5. Monday–Friday, 9 am–9 pm Come out and join us for extended hours during Spring Break.

Tuesday Night Lights Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory, Tuesdays until 9 pm Grab your flashlight and search for butterflies with us!

Outdoor Children’s Activities In the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden Friday, March 1—Tuesday, April 30 Daylight hours only Butterflies are blooming in the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden with engaging outdoor activities: • Experience the life cycle of butterflies and moths—fly like a butterfly, wrap up like a chrysalis, curl up like a caterpillar, or crawl out of an egg using creative costumes and your imagination. • Perform a butterfly-themed puppet show, complete a giant butterfly puzzle or read about moths and butterflies in the Log Cabin. • Search for butterfly and moth life cycle stages in a special Kid-Sense Garden hunt. • Ring the bell after successfully navigating the Butterfly Maze, discovering images of native Michigan butterflies and moths along the way. Can you find all five? • Create a unique design using colorful scales on a giant butterfly wing. • Enjoy a springtime puppet show or story-time; days and times vary.  There’s something for all ages! Activities vary daily; check at the Information Center for what is happening each day.

FRED & DOROTHY FICHTER BUTTERFLIES ARE BLOOMING March 1–April 30

Whether frolicking in the sun or feeding in the shade, the butterflies of spring’s most anticipated exhibition put on a remarkable show as they play in the light and shadows of our tropical paradise.

Soon, thousands of butterflies will spread their wings to soar and delight as they take over the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory. This year marks our 24th annual butterfly exhibition, and we couldn’t be more excited about what’s in store. Butterflies from Africa, Asia, Central and South America will soon call our tropical paradise home, with more than 60 species of butterflies inhabiting our five-story tall glass peaks, abloom with tropical bromeliads, orchids, orange plume flower, pentas and flowering vines like queen’s wreath and bleeding heart. As you stroll, watch the interplay of light and shadow on the forest floor. Observe butterflies as they glide or rest in the shadows and fly busily through patches of sunlight. Notice a rich carpet of foliage punctuated by bright red, orange, and chartreuse plantings, creating an irresistible backdrop of color for observing the butterflies. Find the beguiling longwings, great mormon swallowtails, giant charaxes and translucent paper kites as they swoop and sip on savory nectar plants. See how the light catches the iridescent wings of the common morpho, emerald swallowtail and blue wing. Be sure to stop by the sleek, all new Observation Station where nearly 1,000 butterflies emerge weekly from their delicate chrysalids to take their first flight with us. Because we receive a variety of species each week, the exhibition continually changes, so visit often and at different times of the day. Don’t forget to check for monarch caterpillars as they munch on milkweed in the Grace Jarecki Seasonal Display Greenhouse. When you plan your visit, consider including must-see events like Tuesday Night Lights, Night of the Butterflies member parties and outdoor children’s activities in the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden. Stop by the Information Desk for exact dates and times. We look forward to exploring with you.

Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming is made possible by

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation

Volunteers Wanted. Needed. Appreciated. Various jobs and shifts. Mid-February through mid-May. Contact Amber Oudsema at aoudsema@meijergardens.org or 616-974-5221.

Media Sponsors

Howard Miller Company Foremost Graphics Group The Meijer 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

ANNUAL EXHIBITION 5

“It is almost impossible to quantify the endless benefits offered by the Sculpture Advisory Committee—their wisdom and expertise to enhance and expand Fred’s passion for sculpture has been immense. He deeply trusted and depended upon them to work openly and honestly with staff for the continual benefit of the sculpture program at Meijer Gardens.” —Joe Becherer, Former Chief Curator and Vice President for Collections and Exhibitions

Lena and Fred Meijer. Photo by Johnny Quirin. 6

SCULPTURE EXHIBITION

PROGRAMMING Gardens of Art Around the World Sunday, March 17, 2 pm Fee: Included with Admission Suzanne Eberle, Professor of Art History, Kendall College of Art & Design

Drawing inspiration from gardens and sculpture collections around the globe, Fred Meijer sought to create a unique museum environment second-to-none right here in Grand Rapids. Join Dr. Sue Eberle as she highlights the sculpture gardens that inspired Fred Meijer as well as some of the outstanding outdoor collections to add to your bucket list. This program is drop-in and registration is not required.

Great American Collectors Sunday, April 14, 2 pm Fee: Included with Admission Dr. Craig Hanson, Associate Professor, Calvin College

Fred Meijer, as an art collector, was among a small group of philanthropists who believed that art should be shared widely with the public. He saw his collection as a tool to enrich lives through the power of art. Join Dr. Craig Hanson as he discusses the role of collectors in the United States, and the legacy of art patronage. This program is drop-in and registration is not required.

The Art of Fine Art Collecting Sunday, May 5, 2 pm Fee: Included with Admission Linda and Scott LaFontsee, Owners of LaFontsee Gallery You don’t have to have the resources of Meijer Gardens to build your own fine art collection. Join the owners and artists behind LaFontsee Galleries to learn easy ways to live with original artwork that inspires you every day. This program is drop-in and registration is not required.

Charcoal Drawing with Anna Greidanus Friday, June 14, 3–5 pm Fee: Included with Admission Anna Greidanus, Professor of Art, Calvin College

Head outdoors with artist Anna Greidanus and learn the relaxing and inspiring practice of charcoal drawing. A gestural, loose, and rapid approach is both less intimidating to first time artists and an effective form of observation. The program is free to members. Class size is limited to 15 guests. Please register online at MeijerGardens.org/calendar

Summer Sculpture Walks Sculpture Park Niches, The Gallery Tuesday, July 30, 6 pm Sculpture Park Niches, The Groves Sunday, August 11, 11:30 am Fee: Included with Admission

Get off the beaten path and explore lesser known areas of the Sculpture Park. See fantastic examples of Modern and Contemporary sculpture instrumental to Fred Meijer’s collection style and legacy. Please meet just outside the Indoor Sculpture Galleries and prepare to walk and stand for at least 90 minutes rain or shine. This program is drop-in and registration is not required. A National Treasure: Fred Meijer, His Collection and Legacy is made possible by Bill Padnos & Margy Kaye The Louis and Helen Padnos Foundation 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

A NATIONAL TREASURE: FRED MEIJER, HIS COLLECTION AND LEGACY Friday, February 1—Sunday, August 25, 2019

In true Fred Meijer form, his fascination with art was never about himself. Fred was deeply interested in the visual arts and art history, thanks to his parents who instilled the importance of education, culture and the arts in their children. “The eye needs something, too” was a favorite phrase Gezina Meijer often shared as a reminder that living a truly full life extended beyond physical needs to embrace beauty and intellectual and cultural pursuits. Fred embodied this belief and began collecting in earnest in the mid-1980s with works by Danish-American sculptor Marshall Fredericks, with the intention of sharing them with the public. In 1995, he did just that, gifting 33 of his treasured Fredericks bronze sculptures to the West Michigan Horticultural Society. Just two years later, Fred “Fred’s humility and eagerness to learn was remarkable. pushed his passion beyond his I remember his excitement and perceptive questions when I own personal taste to broaden brought in the drawing-based video art of an artist, a format understanding of Modern and and artist that were both quite new to Fred. He was willing to Contemporary sculpture. At see with fresh eyes and connect with what is sometimes very his suggestion, the Sculpture difficult avant-garde art. Fred taught us to be ever-enthusiastic, Advisory Committee was formed inquisitive students of the world!” as a committee of the Frederik —Suzanne Eberle, Sculpture Advisory Committee Member Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Board of Directors. Fred “The great joy and privilege of working with Fred was his travelled with the committee openness to new ideas. He loved exploring possibilities and was to sculpture parks and outdoor willing to change his mind. We often asked ourselves, ‘What makes a sculpture garden great? How can we create something collections across the United extraordinary in Grand Rapids?’ I miss him terribly.” States and Europe, and ensured —Henry Matthews, Sculpture Advisory Committee Member, 2002-05 that a professional staff was added to Meijer Gardens to “Our family and the Meijer family have known each other for partner with the committee. In 100 years, first in Greenville and then through our interest in art 1999, Fred declared his desire to and involvement with Meijer Gardens. I always appreciated Fred’s “build a world-class collection,” generosity of spirit, curiosity and openness to new experiences solidifying the committee’s focus and ideas, which allowed Meijer Gardens to flourish.” on sculpture from the Modern —Enid Packard, Sculpture Advisory Committee Member tradition (ca. 1880) to the present. Always open and willing to listen, Fred was an active member of the Sculpture Advisory Committee until his passing in 2011. Like Fred, every committee member brought a passion for and experience with art—some are art historians, others art and museum professionals, a few even significant collectors in their own right. They share a commitment to building our permanent collection, vetting every considered work through an extensive process initiated by our staff. Fred was ever attentive to the advice of the committee and, at his last meeting, expressed his delight for the acquisition of Anish Kapoor’s granite masterpiece, Untitled, the first acquisition for The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden. Thanks to the landmark endowment, the Fred and Lena Meijer Sculpture Acquisition Fund, several never-before-seen acquisitions are publicly presented for the first time as part of this exhibition. Join us as we honor Fred’s legacy with a celebration that, just as he would have it, is for the enjoyment of his beloved West Michigan community and all those across the world who come to visit the institution bearing his name.

REMEMBERING FRED MEIJER

SCULPTURE EXHIBITION

A NEW KIND OF GARDEN

Introducing the Padnos Rooftop Sculpture Garden â&#x20AC;&#x153;A piece of ground used for growing The rooftop garden is flowers, fruit, or generously sponsored vegetables,â&#x20AC;? is the by a lead gift from the universal definition Stuart and Barbara Padnos of a garden. In its Foundation, along with simplest form, a place to grow things. support from PADNOS Frederik Meijer and Jeff & Peg Padnos. Gardens & Sculpture Park is indeed a place to grow things, but greater than that, it is a place to enjoy, understand and appreciate gardens, sculpture, the natural environment and the arts. Meijer Gardens is 158 acres of diverse garden spaces, both indoors and out. These gardens include quiet woodlands, a tropical oasis, wide open vistas and intimate spaces. These offerings are expanding. This spring, the first of several new or reimagined gardens will be unveiled, and this garden is different than anything else previously experienced here. Last fall saw the dedication of the Covenant Learning Center. This new educational facility contains the spaces and technology to support an education program that reaches 89,000 people every year. The surprise this spring is a 15,000 square foot garden that transforms the roof of the Covenant Learning Center into the Padnos Rooftop Sculpture Garden. This new garden is markedly different in a number of ways. A clean, modern design creates a distinctly urban space that highlights vistas to the wetlands and boardwalk and has been designed as a beautiful, flexible space for events, gatherings and everyday enjoyment. This garden is visible from the interior gallery space and the sculptures displayed within the garden will change over time with varying relationships to the exhibitions occurring inside. Why a garden on a roof? Besides beauty, this rooftop garden has several interesting advantages over a typical flat roof. On hot summer days, this garden will keep the Covenant Learning Center cooler than a traditional roof. In the winter, the soil and plants become an insulating blanket, helping to moderate temperature changes. Because it is a space that sits in direct sunlight for many hours, the temperature of a traditional rooftop would tend to rise above the actual air temperature. That extra heat radiates back into the building below as well as

HORTICULTURE ESSAY

the surrounding galleries and office areas. The plantings within this garden will provide insulation to the building, create cooler surfaces within the planted spaces, and the trees will provide shade for garden enjoyment. Meijer Gardens has been a leader in stormwater management practices and this garden continues in that tradition. The rooftop garden acts as a sponge, soaking up rainwater. Light rains are completely absorbed by the soil and utilized by the garden. Heavy rain is filtered and leaves the roof with fewer contaminants at a measured pace. Most of the precipitation landing on the roof will return to the atmosphere through evaporation and transpiration. In addition to the stormwater benefits, this garden will extend the life of the roof two to three times. Most importantly, this is a beautiful garden, designed to provide four seasons of interest. Sedums are a group of plants used extensively in rooftop gardens. They are often short, succulent, evergreen plants that work well on rooftops because of their ability to spread and root, holding the soil together, taking up water and surviving in elevated, windy, winter conditions. Sedums are also beautiful. Their many varieties have stems and leaves that can range from lemon yellow or crimson red to steely blue and dusty gray. The seasonal flowers produce a carpet of red, white, pink or yellow. Over a dozen varieties of sedum are combined to create colorful arcs, ribbons and sweeps that pull the viewer through this space. This variable sedum carpet is interplanted with dozens of perennial plant varieties, many of which are native to the upper midwestern United States. These perennials grow up through the sweeps of sedum, providing a changing ebb and flow of texture and color throughout the growing season. A river of ornamental grass flows through the center of the garden and four types of native trees break up the space into places of discovery, revealing views of the wetlands and providing smaller, more intimate areas for sitting and relaxing on the multiple benches throughout. The Padnos Rooftop Sculpture Garden is a beautiful, unique space, full of varied plantings, providing biodiversity and habitat for birds, butterflies and insects, featuring world class sculpture and connecting people through modern, accessible design. It is truly a new kind of garden. Essay by Steve LaWarre, Director of Horticulture

Sedum, as pictured here, will provided a colorful groundcover for the new Padnos Rooftop Sculpture Garden. Photo by Tom Pancake. HORTICULTURE ESSAY

The new Peter C. & Emajean Cook Transportation Center, opened last year, is just a small part of the expansion taking place at Meijer Gardens. Photo by Anthony Norkus.

TAKING SHAPE THIS SPRING Spring has sprung and with it more expansion excitement. Here’s an insider’s look at what’s happening this season. As the seasons change, so does the look of our evolving campus. In 2017, we ushered in the largest capital campaign in our 23-year history, Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love, which will expand our facilities and gardens. Milestones to date include breaking ground on the new Welcome Center, opening the new Covenant Learning Center and stepping up tram tours with the new Peter C. & Emajean Cook Transportation Center. This past winter, we laid the foundation for the new amphitheater support building, Padnos Rooftop Sculpture Garden and other facilities, and even reengineered our parking lots. The first third, Lot B (formerly Lots C and D) in front of the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater, opened late last fall. By fall 2019, all new parking lots will be fully functioning and offer our growing membership and guests an additional 125 spaces and 98% increase in the number of spots within a two-minute walk to the doors of the Welcome Center. Spring promises to be an exciting season as we prepare for the sixteenth annual Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens. Phase one expansion focused on seating. Phase two encompasses a new concessions building and the new Frey 10

ORGANIZATIONAL HIGHLIGHT

Foundation Entry Plaza, which will be the gateway into the grounds for concerts and special events. Guest enhancements include expanded box office and concessions areas, as well as restrooms outside the main gate for early arrivers. An extra gate will expedite guest entry into the amphitheater and our generous major sponsors, Fifth Third Bank, Harvey Lexus of Grand Rapids, and Spectrum Health will enjoy an upgraded tent space for hospitality within the plaza. We’re raising expectations for aesthetics as well. The new Frey Foundation Entry Plaza will physically connect and visually unify the new Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater and Welcome Center with common stone work and brick pavers. In total, an astonishing 68,000 square feet in pavers will be laid by dedicated crews when these two focal points of our new campus are completed. Our horticulture teams will be equally busy, creating beds of diverse plantings bursting with seasonal color inside the amphitheater plaza, around the concessions area and even in our parking lot islands–after all, they’re gardens, too! Share in our anticipation by keeping up with our progress at MeijerGardens.org/growing.

The Prunus subhirtella or Weeping Higan Cherry is one of four varieties of ornamental cherry trees found throughout Meijer Gardens’ 158 acres. Photo by Peter McDaniel.

BLOOMING WITH GREAT EXPECTATIONS It’s the question our horticulture team gets asked most in the spring and the answer is a resounding, “When they’re ready.” Equally vibrant and vulnerable, the beauty of the blossoming cherry tree is intertwined with the sometimes unforgiving, always unpredictable West Michigan seasons. So every April, we wait with optimism to see if Mother Nature will be gentle and blooms plentiful. Across our 158 acres, you’ll find many varieties of ornamental cherry trees, the most abundant being the Akebono Cherry (Prunus x yedoensis Akebono) in the Cherry Tree Promenade in The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden. The next most plentiful are the Weeping Higan Cherry (Prunus subhirtella Higan), Okame Cherry (Prunus x incamp Okame) and Kwanzan Cherry (Prunus serrulata Kwanzan), which was planted by former Michigan Governor Rick Snyder and the Honorable Taizo Mikazuki, Governor of the Shiga Prefecture, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Michigan-Shiga Sister State Program. Initially a symbol of friendship, the ornamental cherry tree came to America on March 27, 1912 as a gift from Japan. Known as Sakura in Japan, this exalted flowering tree symbolizes the ephemeral nature of beauty and youth. Since then, the genetic stock from these first 3,000 trees has been shared back and forth

“When will the cherry trees blossom?”

between our countries. Every year, the United States celebrates this historic gift of friendship with the National Cherry Blossom Festival, underneath the canopies of iconic ‘Akebono’ and ‘Kwanzan’ trees lining the National Mall and Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C. Although peak bloom is brief, the anticipation of the beauty of the blooms lasts over a month. They emerge even before leaf buds, blooming along naked branches in five distinctive stages, each one captivating the senses and serving as nature’s best predictor. Stage 1, Green Bud, signals impending blossoms with fat, round green buds. Stage 2, Florets Visible, occurs two-to-three weeks before peak bloom and is marked by swelling buds and the first sightings of tiny florets. Stage 3, Extension of Florets, happens just days later, with florets taking on a deeper pink hue as they peek out of buds. Stage 4, Peduncle Elongation, occurs when flower stems (peduncles) elongate and buds rise up to reveal individual blossoms. With peak bloom less than 10 days away, this marks the frost critical point. Stage 5, Fluffy White, blossoms begin to open, each one at a different time, leading up to peak bloom four-to-six days later. Blossoms last just a few glorious days before they fall and carpet the ground. The cyclical nature of the garden brings great comfort and a higher consciousness of the human experience, every season unfolding like four-dimensional art. Perhaps nothing embodies the evanescence of life more than the delicate flowers of the Sakura. Don’t miss them in all their splendor this spring. SEASONAL HIGHLIGHT

Springâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s arrival is announced by the blooming of the daffodils. Photo by Kelly Norris. 12 MASTER LECTURE SERIES

PLANTS WITH STYLE “A garden is the best way to savor life on earth.” A lifelong gardener with a contagious passion for connecting people with plants, Kelly Norris is widely considered a guru and rising star in American horticulture. His obsession began at age 15, when he talked his parents into buying a nursery. Ever since, he’s devoted his life to cultivating new perspectives on gardening. Join us for an evening that’s sure to intrigue and inspire. Now the director of horticulture and education at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, Norris leads a team of horticulturists and educators in all aspects of design, curation, programming and garden management. Norris is the youngest recipient of the Iowa State Horticultural Society’s Presidential Citation, Award of Merit and Honor Award in the organization’s 150 year history, as well as the youngest to earn the Iowa Author Award for Special Interest Writing. An acclaimed writer and photographer, he regularly contributes to Country Gardens, Fine Gardening and The American Gardener and acts as contributing editor to Greenhouse Grower, an industry publication. A two-time author, Norris published his first book, A Guide to Bearded Irises: Cultivating the Rainbow for Beginners and Enthusiasts from Timber Press, in 2013 and won the American Horticultural Society Book Award. On April 2, he will treat Meijer Gardens to a one-night-only look into his life as a charismatic curator and modern gardener through his most recent work, Plants with Style: A Plantsman’s Choices for a Vibrant, 21st-Century Garden. This spirited book has sparked a revolution that has energized gardening with new design, structure, techniques and plantings. Like a true zealot, Norris will challenge you to banish the common and ho-hum for the creative and unusual, to design a garden that expresses your style and delights your soul. He’ll explore themes like:

The Master Lecture Series SECCHIA GARDEN LECTURE Tuesday, April 2, 7 pm Speaker: Kelly D. Norris

Gardening in harmony with the environment. Norris recognizes that gardens aren’t isolated from the world around them, and that the best gardens are created when we embrace sense of place and celebrate ecology. He’ll share how to leverage the coexistence of gardens within their environment to create a more satisfying, less labor-intensive garden. The structure of the modern garden. Norris believes that a 21st Century garden deserves a durable skeleton: strong, living structure with walls and floors on which to hang and paint. He’ll show how structural plants define spaces around them—the negative space—in ways beyond aesthetics to unite the landscape. Emblem plants for every season. Each season has timepiece essential plants that bring gardeners joy. These emblems often define expectations for each passing season in the garden and, without them, time in the garden becomes a blur. Norris will highlight how to incorporate emblematic plants that honor diversity in the garden, in every season. Creating unity in the garden with vignettes. With stylistic training, any gardener can begin to make signature vignettes or quintessential pairings that crop up over and over in the garden, bringing harmony to the landscape. Norris will share his ideas for designing vignettes with a dramatic palette of plants. Fittingly called “a love letter to plants” by The English Garden magazine, Plants with Style defines progressive gardening. Don’t miss meeting its equally revolutionary writer. Following the lecture, join Norris for a book signing. Copies of Plants with Style will be available for purchase. New this year, Kelly Norris will be teaching a workshop the day after his lecture. Called Planting Design Inspired by Nature, this workshop will lead attendees in sketching ideas for their home gardens. For more information, see the Classes section on page 20. FEE: Free for members, general admission for non-members. Registration required at MeijerGardens.org/calendar. Please direct registration questions to Shelly Kilroy at skilroy@meijergardens.org or call 616-975-3144. Captioning service will be provided. This annual lecture is made possible by The Secchia Family. MASTER LECTURE SERIES

“We had an amazing afternoon and evening experience which included the helicopter ride, champagne and tickets to the Styx concert. What an incredible experience to see Grand Rapids and the surrounding areas from the air! We had so much fun and I would definitely bid on this experience again. You can’t beat laughter, fun, music and a birds eye view of the American Horse at Meijer Gardens.” —Bridgett VanDerhoff

From left to right: Patty Pogodinski, Bridget VanDerhoff, Melissa Koster, and Autumn Bont prepare for take-off. Photo by Matt Eickhoff.

GREAT GARDENS PARTY

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8, 2019, 6–9 PM The Great Gardens Party is the signature springtime fundraising event at Meijer Gardens. We invite you to join in the fun of our most vibrant event of the year! You will wine and dine with friends and colleagues and have an opportunity to support Meijer Gardens’ mission by participating in our ever-popular wine garden and concert ticket raffle. Each year, the Great Gardens Party offers silent and live auctions for fantastic items and once-in-alifetime experiences. 14

DEVELOPMENT/MEMBERSHIP

There are many ways to participate: 1. Host a table for 10 people by becoming an event sponsor. Sponsorship levels include Blossom ($10,000), Bud ($5,000) or Seed ($2,500).

3. Purchase 2. Donate an item event tickets for the silent for yourself, auction or live friends, family auction. Unique or and/or clients experiential items at $100 each. are welcome.

Concert Tickets Raffle Purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win two reserved-seat concert tickets for the entire 2019 Fifth Third Bank Summer Concert Series.

QUARTERLY TRIBUTES The following gifts were received between October 1 and December 31, 2018. Those honored or memorialized are shown in bold type, while the donors are in regular type.

IN HONOR Ann Busby Anonymous Jake Christensen Paul & Mary Christensen Samuel Dix Peter and Cheryl Dix Laura Jo Hanenburg Kathy Hanenburg Donna Kensa Anonymous Mr. & Mrs. Robert Rander Paul Rander Dr. & Mrs. C.H. Southwick Gay Adams Margaret Swartz Angelyn Royce

IN MEMORY Beverly Barrett C. David and Susan Campbell

Paul Baughman Sally Kammeraad

Iris Calvin Henwood James Henwood

Karen Sue Beineman Barbara Beineman

Irma & Barton Hogarth Anonymous

Harvey Beltman Lu & Patti Beltman

Harriet Hoogerwerf Irma Cornelius

Dolores Bogenski Sandra McClive

Patrick K. Lasher Roger & Luanne Bleiler

Marion Friedrich Louanna Elya Meg Lass Grant and Kate Lynn Barbara Marcus David and Jerri Schroeder Alexander Vermaire Joan Vermaire and Willian Skea Gloria Yff

Walter J. McVeigh Pamela McVeigh

Chuck Goodell

Dick Riebel Kathy Riebel

Doris Griffith Kay Hammond Sandra Haney Frederick and Stephanie Haney

Barbara Raby Joanne Ash Eugene and Barbara Bonofiglo Ann Game Nanci Garnand Cathy Poulos

Nel Shawver Dr. and Mrs. Marshall Ellens

A JOYFUL EVENING AT CHRISTMAS CABARET On December 6, 2018, Meijer Gardens hosted its annual holiday gala: Christmas Cabaret, presented by Van Dellen Steel, Inc. This signature fundraising event welcomed 470 guests for an evening of exquisite food, wine and cocktails. Guests were treated to a performance by a ten-piece ensemble from the Grand Rapids Symphony, titled Joy to Your Ears. A segment of the joy film, produced for this year’s Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World exhibition, was shown, featuring Lena Meijer decorating the German tree with springerle cookies. With support of our fantastic sponsors and guests, Meijer Gardens raised more than $130,000 in support of its mission. Event photos may be viewed at: anthonynorkusphotography.pixieset.com/2018cabaret/ The event’s success was made possible by the following generous donors: PRESENTING SPONSOR

WINE SPONSOR POINSETTIA SPONSORS

DOUG, SARAH & KENDALL MEIJER MISTLETOE SPONSORS

2018 Christmas Cabaret. Photo by Anthony Norkus.

For more information, contact Matt Eickhoff, Fundraising Events Manager at 616-975-3168 or email meickhoff@ meijergardens.org. You may also find information online at MeijerGardens. org/calendar/greatgardens-party. We hope to see you there!

Great Gardens Party Committee: Committee Co-Chairs Joy Fossel Elisa Lintemuth Mary McLoughlin

Committee Members Amy Assenmacher Todd Harvey Bruce Matthews Michael Toth Debbye Turner-Bell Nathan VanderPloeg

HOLLY SPONSORS Aquinas College BHS Insurance Cascade Engineering Peter C. & Emajean Cook Foundation Crowe, LLP Deloitte DK Security

Fence Consultants Grand Valley State University J.C. & Tammy Huizenga The I.C.N. Foundation InnoValuation LLC Materials Testing Consultants

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT PROVIDED BY: Ellis Parking Company Ruffino Wines Gilson Graphics Spectrum Health

Meijer Inc. Lena Meijer MeXo & Zoko822 Bill & Pat Mills Owen Ames Kimball Jim & Marie Preston Mark & Diane Rizik John & Vicky Weller Warner Norcross + Judd

CHRISTMAS CABARET COMMITTEE: Committee Co-Chairs: Linda Chamberlain, Vicky Weller Committee Members: Amy Assenmacher, Tami Hibbitts, Mike Jeppesen, Doriane Parker-Sims, Sharon Van Dellen and Jill Walcott

Mark your calendars for next years’ Christmas Cabaret event, to be held Wednesday, December 4, 2019.

DEVELOPMENT/MEMBERSHIP

EVENTS

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

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

LENA MEIJER CHILDREN’S GARDEN

MICHIGAN’S FARM GARDEN

SUMMER CONCERTS

March 1–April 30, Daylight hours only

Tuesdays: April 16–30 10 am

FIFTH THIRD BANK SUMMER CONCERTS: MEMBERS-ONLY PRESALE

Activities During FRED & DOROTHY FICHTER BUTTERFLIES ARE BLOOMING

FEE: Included with admission Butterflies are blooming in the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden with engaging outdoor activities: • Experience the life cycle of butterflies and moths— fly like a butterfly, wrap up like a chrysalis, curl up like a caterpillar, or crawl out of an egg using creative costumes. • Perform a butterfly-themed puppet show, complete a giant butterfly puzzle or read about moths and butterflies in the Log Cabin. • Search for butterfly and moth life cycle stages in a special Kid-Sense Garden hunt. • Ring the bell after successfully navigating the Butterfly Maze. • Create a unique design using colorful scales on a giant butterfly wing. • Enjoy a springtime puppet show or story-time; days and times vary.  There’s something for all ages! Activities vary daily; check at the Information Center for what is happening each day.

SPRINGTIME WALKS

FEE: Included with admission The Farm Garden will be the focus for these wonderful springtime walks for preschoolers and their families. Themes include: • Finding Out About Farm Animals • How Does the Farm Garden Grow? • Old-Fashioned Farm Fun Each week, kids will explore the Farm, participate in hands-on activities and listen to fun farm stories. Hope to see you down on the Farm!

Member presale: Saturday, April 27 at 9 am; presale ends Friday, May 10 at 11:59 pm On sale to public: Saturday, May 11 at 9 am As spring approaches, we invite you to look forward to warm weather and beautiful sunsets in the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater. The full lineup for the Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens will be announced in mid-April.

Tuesdays in July & August, 7 pm

TUESDAY EVENING MUSIC CLUB

FEE: Included with admission Save the date for Tuesdays in July and August—join us in the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater for the best live, local performances. The full lineup will be announced in mid-April.

Saturday, April 27 1-4 pm

EARTH DAY

FEE: Included with admission Celebrate Earth awareness the Children’s Garden way. Activities will include: • Investigating what’s blooming on fun-filled Earth appreciation walks at 1:15 and 2:15 pm. • Listening to stories all about the Earth at 1:45, 2:45 and 3:45 pm. • Exploring vermiculture with a kid-friendly worm hunt. • Celebrating the natural world with an eco-friendly craft—using recycled materials in creative ways.

Saturday, May 11 10 am–12 pm

JUST FOR MOMS

FEE: Included with admission Treat your mom (or another special person in your life) with unique Mother’s Day activities in the Children’s Garden. Activities will include: • Listening to a variety of stories focused on mothers at 10:15 and 11:15 am. • “Just for Mom and Me” music time at 10:45 am. • Crafting a colorful “forever flower” wristlet with bright tissue paper. • Participating in a clever color hunt in the KidSense Garden. 16

EVENTS

Tuesday, May 7 1–2:30 pm

READ & EXPLORE: ART AND GARDENS BOOK GROUP

FEE: Included with admission Join us as we discuss Elisabeth Tova Bailey’s work The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating. Bedridden with a mysterious illness, the author describes her year-long encounter with a common forest snail residing in a flower pot at her bedside. Described as “a work that beautifully demonstrates the rewards of closely observing nature” this book is sure to inspire great conversation. We will begin our time together with a short experience of forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, in our Gwen Frostic Woodland Shade Garden, led by Japanese Garden horticulturist Dave Rettig. Limited to 20 adults, reservations required. RSVP to 616-975-3144 or skilroy@meijergardens.org

Photo by Erin Zacek.

Wednesday, May 22 6 pm

ANNUAL MEETING

Everyone is welcome to attend the annual meeting at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

EVENTS BUS TRIPS

THE RICHARD & HELEN DEVOS JAPANESE GARDEN SATURDAYS: May 18, June 15, July 20, August 17, September 14, October 19 11:30 am or 2 pm

JAPANESE TEA CEREMONY IN THE TEAHOUSE

Photo by National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Thursday, June 6, 8 am–6:15 pm Photo by F. Footer.

Wednesday, May 15, 7:45 am–10:30 pm

CHICAGO’S NAVY PIER: HAMLET AT THE SHAKESPEARE THEATER AND BRUNCH

FEE: $170 members, $190 non-members Sit back and enjoy the ride to Chicago, stopping for a mouth-watering brunch at Summer House Santa Monica. Named as the Best Place for Brunch in Lincoln Park, Summer House gives the feeling of the warmth and the laid-back atmosphere of the West Coast. The menu is California-inspired with a focus on local, sustainable farming and seasonal specialties. Following brunch, arrive at Navy Pier to enjoy a world-class production of Hamlet, the classic story of a grief-stricken prince who vows revenge over the death of his father at the hand of his uncle. Experience the acclaimed acting of four-time Tony nominated actor Raul Esparza, in the title role as Hamlet, also known for his role on the popular television series Law and Order: SVU. Immerse yourself in Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s unique performance space, where the “T-style” stage allows theater-goers to sit on three sides of the action. After the performance, participate in a “talk-back,” a post-show discussion with the actors and behind-the-scenes staff. Enjoy dinner on your own at one of Navy Pier’s many superb restaurants, taking time to explore the many unique shops. Fee includes transportation, a snack en route to Chicago, brunch, a theatre ticket valued at $68, and all gratuities. Register at MeijerGardens.org/calendar or call 616-975-3147 or 616-975-3184.

SOUTH BEND: MANSIONS AND MUSEUMS

FEE: $100 members, $120 non-members Join us on a delightful day trip to South Bend, Indiana to view two amazing mansions: one a house museum with a formal Italianate garden and original furnishings, and the other a popular local restaurant and event venue that offers self-guided tours and tasty lunches. Also included on our trip, enjoy peeks at a 1930s-era Workers’ House and other History Museum exhibits on architecture, the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi, and three floors of fascinating Studebaker history, from historic wagons to classic cars. We’ll begin our time in South Bend with a guided tour of the first floor of Oliver Mansion, also known as Copshaholm, named after the Scottish village where the homeowner’s father and inventor of the chilled plow was born. The home, a Romanesque Queen Anne style home, made of local fieldstone and featuring several Tiffany glass windows, is lavishly decorated in the style of the 1930s. The formal gardens include a pergola, fountain and a sunken garden. A short distance away is Tippecanoe Place Restaurant, located in the lovely and ornate Studebaker Mansion. Here we will enjoy lunch, followed by an optional self-guided tour of the public areas of the mansion. Lunch choices, along with other trip information, will be sent to participants several weeks ahead of the trip. After lunch take some time on your own for a walking tour of historic homes in the area. Visit the History Museum exhibits, the Workers’ Home, and the Studebaker Museum, all located on the grounds of the History Museum. Fee includes transportation, a snack en route to South Bend, admissions, a guided tour, lunch, and all gratuities. Register at MeijerGardens.org/calendar or call 616-975-3147 or 616-975-3184.

FEE: $50 members, $60 non-members (Register early. Space is limited.) Registration required at MeijerGardens.org/ calendar or call 616-975-3147. Witness the Japanese art of chanoyu, or tea ceremony. Graceful Japanese tea masters, in elegant kimono, will perform the ceremonial cleansing of the utensils, thoughtful preparation and quiet presentation of a bowl of matcha (finely ground green tea), with commentary by a representative from the Japanese Consulate. After the presentation, savor the sweets and matcha green tea. As an integral part of this experience, all guests will utilize and enjoy original works of Shigaraki pottery from Meijer Gardens’ permanent collection. Each object is a work of art especially commissioned from many of Japan’s leading ceramic masters. This contemplative ceremony appeals to all five senses and is best observed quietly. Guests will be asked to remove their shoes before entering the teahouse.

SUNDAYS: May 19, June 16, July 21, August 18, September 15, October 20, 1–4 pm

INSIDE THE JAPANESE TEAHOUSE

FEE: Included with admission Experience the tranquil ambience and exquisite architecture of our authentic Japanese Teahouse on the third Sunday of the month from May to October. Take special note of the master carpentry, contrasting woods, patterns, textures, and numerous distinctive details. This opportunity is included with admission. Guests will be asked to remove their shoes before entering the teahouse.

Photo by Peter McDaniel.

EVENTS

BONSAI SHOW & WORKSHOPS More information about these workshops at MeijerGardens.org.

Saturday, May 11: Vendors 9 am–5 pm, displays noon–5 pm Sunday, May 12: Vendors and displays, 11 am–5 pm

MICHIGAN ALL STATE BONSAI SHOW

FEE: Free admission to the Bonsai Show Join bonsai artists, aficionados, and admirers from across the Midwest to see stunning bonsai on display in the Huizenga Grand Room. Visit the sales area for a great selection of specialty tools, pots, wire and bonsai trees. Have the experts help you find the tree that fits your taste, experience level and growing environment. Be sure to attend free demonstrations offered throughout the weekend. Bonsai artists, including this year’s guest artist, Todd Schlafer, will demonstrate pruning, wiring, and other styling techniques. Todd’s specialty is working with native collected trees, many of which have sparse foliage and unconventional branches and present quite a styling challenge! Todd will be teaching two “Bring Your Own Tree” workshops to help bonsai artists style and refine their trees. Additional workshops, designed for all skill levels, are available during the weekend. Register early—they fill quickly!

SATURDAY, MAY 11 9:30 am–12 pm

BONSAI FOR BEGINNERS WORKSHOP

INSTRUCTOR: Joe Martinez FEE: $65 members, $75 non-members Experience level: Beginners Maximum: 10 participants Learn the basics of bonsai while working on a ‘Tiger Bark’ Ficus. This tropical tree is an easy-to-care-for houseplant and can be trained into a handsome bonsai tree and enjoyed indoors year-round. Receive instructions on future care. All materials, including a Ficus, bonsai pot and bonsai mix are provided.

10 am–12 pm

CREATE A KUSAMONO AND ACCENT PLANTING

INSTRUCTOR: Joe Chirco FEE: $55 members, $65 non-members Experience level: all, Maximum: 12 participants Discover the art of Kusamono by creating your own potted arrangement of plants that can be displayed by itself or with a bonsai. Then select a plant and pot to create an “accent plant.” It can add beauty and interest to a bonsai or be planted just for fun! All materials, including a variety of plants and pots to create two plantings, are included.

12–2 pm

ROOT-OVER-ROCK ‘BURTT DAVYI’ FICUS

INSTRUCTOR: Mark Fields FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members Experience level: Beginners and intermediate Maximum: 12 participants Learn how to create a root-over-rock style bonsai using a ‘Burtt Davyi’ Ficus. This cultivar develops a silvery gray bark and has glossy green leaves. Begin by trimming 2-year-old rooted cuttings grown specifically for this style, secure them to a rock using vinyl tape and plant them in a plastic bonsai pot. Bring pruning shears or sharp scissors. All other materials are provided. 18

EVENTS

1–3 pm

‘BOULEVARD’ CYPRESS WORKSHOP

INSTRUCTOR: Jim Beck FEE: $70 members, $80 non-members Experience level: Intermediate and beyond Maximum: 12 participants Create a bonsai using ‘Boulevard’ cypress, a cultivar of Japanese False Cypress with soft, bluegreen foliage. These plants can be shaped into a variety of styles, including informal upright and semi-cascade. Trees will not be re-potted during the workshop. Materials include a ‘Boulevard’ cypress that is approx. 10" tall with a ½" trunk.

2:30–4:30 pm

BONSAI FOR BEGINNERS WORKSHOP

INSTRUCTOR: Eric Newton FEE: $65 members, $75 non-members Experience level: Beginners Maximum: 10 participants Learn the basics of creating a bonsai using a juniper, a durable evergreen that has many styling possibilities. Begin by analyzing it for the best possible style, then prune, wire and repot your new bonsai into a plastic training pot. Learn how to care for it and receive advice on future development. All materials, including a juniper, plastic bonsai pot, bonsai mix, and wire provided.

SUNDAY, MAY 12 11:30 am–2:30 pm

IN-DEPTH BEGINNER’S BONSAI WORKSHOP

INSTRUCTOR: Tim Priest FEE: $75 members, $85 non-members Experience level: Beginners Maximum: 15 participants Explore the art of bonsai in more depth and learn about the many different styles possible. Then participate in and a round-table discussion to explore the design possibilities of the Itoigawa ‘Shimpaku’ junipers that will be used in the workshop. Begin trimming and styling your tree and repot it into a bonsai pot. Receive information on future development and care. All materials, including a juniper, bonsai pot, bonsai mix, and wire provided.

12–2 pm

FUKIEN TEA BONSAI WORKSHOP

INSTRUCTOR: Jim Beck FEE: $95 members, $105 non-members Experience level: Beginners and intermediate Maximum: 8 participants Create a lovely bonsai using Fukien tea, a tropical plant that has glossy leaves, white flowers, and small berries. The trees are 12-inches tall with a one-inch trunk diameter and have been grown specifically to be developed into a nice, informal upright style bonsai. They will not be re-potted during this workshop. Learn how to care for this tree and receive advice on future development. Materials include Fukien tea bonsai.

1:30–3:30 pm

‘MORRIS MIDGET’ BOXWOOD BONSAI

INSTRUCTOR: Ken Huth FEE: $70 members, $80 non-members Experience level: all, Maximum: 15 participants Learn the basic techniques of how to shape, train and repot a bonsai. Receive a ‘Morris Midget’ boxwood, a dwarf, compact evergreen that is an excellent choice for bonsai. All materials, including a boxwood, bonsai pot, bonsai mix, and wire provided.

2–5 pm

BRING YOUR OWN TREE WORKSHOP

INSTRUCTOR: Todd Schlafer, Guest Artist FEE: $50 members, $60 non-members Experience level: Intermediate to advanced Maximum: 8 participants Bring one to three bonsai currently in development and work on styling and refining your trees with expert guidance from Guest Artist Todd Schlafer. Todd will spend time with each participant analyzing their trees and then provide one-on-one assistance. Bring your own tools and appropriate wire.

INSTRUCTOR: Todd Schlafer, Guest Artist FEE: $50 members, $60 non-members Experience level: Intermediate to advanced Maximum 8 participants Bring one to three bonsai currently in development and work on styling and refining your trees with expert guidance from Guest Artist Todd Schlafer. Todd will spend time with each participant analyzing their trees and then provide one-on-one assistance. Bring your own tools and appropriate wire.

CL ASSES

REGISTER ONLINE AT MEIJERGARDENS.ORG/CALENDAR E-mail classes@meijergardens.org to ask questions. Pre-registration and pre-payment required. Non-member class fees include admission to Meijer Gardens for class participants on the day of the class.

SPRING CLASSES

Find out more information about the classes below at MeijerGardens.org.

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

FAMILY MINDFULNESS

INSTRUCTORS: from Grand Rapids Center for Mindfulness FEE: $10 member child, $15 member adult $13 non-member child, $18 non-member adult Spend time with family members practicing mindfulness in the seasonal beauty of Meijer Gardens. Mindfulness can be a useful skill to help bring more clarity and calm into our lives. The workshop will include a variety of mindfulness activities including a mindful walk and tai chi exercises. Dress for the weather.

ADVANCED VEGETABLE GARDENING*

BUTTERFLY PHOTOGRAPHY

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.

BEGINNING VEGETABLE GARDENING*

Saturday, March 16 (Adults) 12:30–2:30 pm

Sunday, March 10 OR March 17 (Adults) 9–11 am

Photo by Arturo Menriquez.

Saturday, March 16 (Adults) 9:30–11:30 am INSTRUCTOR: Greg Dunn FEE: $30 members, $40 non-members Starting from the ground up, learn methods for preparing your site and the importance of good soil. Discover how watering, fertilizing, pest management and selecting the best varieties of plants will ensure an abundance of vegetables all season long.

Saturday, March 2 (Ages 7-16 with Adult) 10 am–12 pm

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

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

Photo by Erin Zacek.

INSTRUCTOR: Greg Dunn FEE: $30 members, $40 non-members A continuation of Beginning Vegetable Gardening, this class will cover the how and why of crop rotation, why companion planting should be an essential part of your garden, the most common diseases and how to prevent them, tips to extend the growing season, harvesting guidelines and more!

Tuesday, March 12 (Adults) 7–8:30 pm

GARDENS AND GRANDEUR: A TASTE OF AUSTRALIA

INSTRUCTOR: Ian Warnock FEE: $15 members, $20 non-members Enjoy a cup of coffee and an Anzac biscuit or Tim Tam (favorite Australian cookies), as Lead Horticulturist Ian Warnock guides you to the “land down under.” Beginning in Sydney, enjoy the lush plantings and Victorian influences of the Royal Botanic Gardens at Sydney, with views of the Sydney Opera House and surrounding harbor. Learn about one of the world’s rarest plants, the Wollemi pine, and see the flying foxes that make the botanic gardens home. Before leaving Sydney, visit the tranquil Chinese National Friendship Garden. Then travel northwest to the Blue Mountains, named for the blue haze caused by oils released from eucalyptus trees, to see native tree ferns and listen for the lyrebird. We will continue our journey northwest to the desert region of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park to see the spectacular red rocks and domes. Conclude with the haunting sounds of the didgeridoo, a traditional instrument of the Aboriginal people—played by Ian himself!

Photo by Artfoliophoto.

Spring Gardening Classes are made possible by

CLASSES

CL ASSES

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

Photo by Peter McDaniel.

Thursday, March 21 (Adults) 5–7 pm

POLLINATOR GARDENS*

INSTRUCTOR: Rebecca Marquardt FEE: $30 members, $40 non-members Join landscape architect Rebecca Marquardt and find out all you need to know to invite stunning winged visitors to your garden. Learn to create a pollinator haven for attracting both bees and butterflies. Discover who the pollinators are, both wild and domesticated, why pollinator gardens are so important, and which native and non-native plants to include in your garden. Receive information and resources for plants that have the highest pollen and nectar value for your home landscape.

Tuesdays, March 26 AND April 9 (Adults) 6–8pm

CERAMIC GARDEN MARKERS

INSTRUCTOR: Maren Herman FEE: $50 members, $60 non-members Think spring while creating six colorful garden markers to embellish your garden. In the first session of this two-part class, make your garden stakes from white stoneware clay and choose to stamp or etch the names of your favorite garden herbs and vegetables. Underglaze and clear glazing will be completed in the second session. Your garden markers will be fired off-site to ensure their durability. Pick up your completed pieces one week after the second class.

CANCELLATION POLICY

CLASSES

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

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

SPRING BREAK CLASSES

INTRODUCTION TO COLORED PENCIL DRAWING AND RENDERING

Monday, April 1 (Age 3 with Adult) 10–11:30 am

INSTRUCTOR: Olivia MacKay FEE: $45 members, $55 non-members Begin by practicing pencil control to create colorful gradients, tones and textures in a relaxed atmosphere. Learn to create an engaging composition using layering techniques, blending and line work to capture the beauty of colorful flowers and plants. Receive helpful tips on achieving true to life shading. Class limited to 12 students.

Wednesday, April 3 (Adults) 10 am–2 pm

PLANTING DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE* INSTRUCTOR: Kelly Norris FEE: $55 members, $65 non-members Maximum: 20 students Join Kelly Norris, author of Plants with Style and the presenter for the 2019 Secchia Garden Lecture, in this special workshop that draws inspiration from native landscapes as the basis for creating gardens that are beautiful, functional and sustainable. Under Kelly’s direction, participate in drawing exercises and leave with a sketch and several ideas about an application in your home landscape. All materials, as well as a box lunch, provided. This workshop is made possible through the support of the Secchia family.

Tuesday, April 9 (Adults) 6–8 pm

FUSED GLASS FLOWER POCKET VASES INSTRUCTOR: Gloria Badiner FEE: $75 members, $85 non-members Welcome spring into your home with a beautiful flower pocket vase! Create a 4 x 6-inch fused glass panel that will be kiln-fired into a watertight wall pocket, using your imagination to arrange your own colorful, custom design. Pieces will be fired off-site for pickup at a later date. Artwork by Gloria Badiner.

GRANDPARENT AND ME: READY FOR RABBITS

FEE: $18 member child, $18 member adult $22 non-member child, $22 non-member adult Visit the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden and discover what rabbits eat, where they sleep and how they move, through activities and stories. Then come inside and pet a real rabbit! Make your own rabbit ears and a simple snack to round out the fun. This class is for age 3 only with an adult.

Tuesday, April 2 (Ages 6-10 with adult) 10 am–12 pm

GRANDPARENT AND ME: OPEN STUDIO ART

FEE: $18 member child, $18 member adult $22 non-member child, $22 non-member adult Receive a studio box filled with a variety of objects to paint, sketch, embellish, or assemble in your own unique way using tissue paper, yarn, paints, beads, metal, and more. Enjoy the process of creating together and leave with several one-of-a-kind creations! Dress to get messy!

Wednesday, April 3 (Ages 8-12) 9–11 am

PORCELAIN NECKLACES FOR KIDS

FEE: $25 members, $35 non-members Have fun making your own unique necklace using air-dry porcelain clay. Learn super cool techniques from a professional ceramicist to form organic shapes and beads. Take your pieces home to air-dry and paint. Class includes one synthetic necklace.

Thursday, April 4 (Ages 8-10) 10 am–12 pm

DRAWING WITH COLOR: BEGINNING OIL PASTELS FOR KIDS

FEE: $25 members, $35 non-members Have fun experimenting with oil pastels and learn to “paint” a landscape using these creamy, vibrant, compressed paints. Be inspired by the fabulous colors and textures of gardens and receive tips from a professional artist to create an 8" x 12" composition sure to dazzle your family and friends!

Thursday, April 11 (Adults) 4–6 pm

Saturday, April 27 (Ages 4-5 with Adult) 10–11:30 am

Friday, May 3 (Ages 6+ with an Adult) 6:30–8 pm

PRUNING TREES AND SHRUBS*

GRANDPARENT AND ME: CHERRY BLOSSOM ART

SPRING EVENING HIKE FOR FAMILIES

INSTRUCTOR: Dave Rettig FEE: $25 members, $35 non-members Bring out the natural beauty of your trees and shrubs and learn how to prune with confidence. Discover when to prune, the proper techniques and best tools. Then venture outdoors and use your newly acquired knowledge to “coach” the instructor as he demonstrates pruning trees and shrubs.

Wednesday, April 17 (Adults) 6:30–8:30 pm

MINDFULNESS FOR ADULTS

INSTRUCTOR: Carol Hendershot and April Kaiserlian, Grand Rapids Center for Mindfulness FEE: $25 members, $35 non-members This workshop is for busy people who want to bring mindfulness into their lives. We will practice mindful movement, a breathing meditation, a self-compassion break and grounding exercises. Participants receive handouts and digital recordings of guided meditations.

Saturday, April 20 (Adults) 10 am–1 pm

HAND LETTERING

INSTRUCTOR: Katie Reitemeier FEE: $45 members, $55 non-members This class will build upon your own handwriting to create artfully drawn letters using pencil, marker, brush pen and watercolor enhancement. Bring a frame (8" x 10") and a favorite quote if you’d like to take home a finished piece to display. Students will leave with 5 hand-lettered cards to share and many techniques to carry forward.

Thursdays, April 25 OR May 9 (Adults) 6–7 pm

FEE: $18 member child, $18 member adult $22 non-member child, $22 non-member adult Spend time together in the Japanese Garden with a spring search-and-find: flowering cherry blossoms appearing, fiddleheads of ferns unfurling, early spring flowers blooming, robins and chickadees exploring. Then use colorful tissue paper to paint a spring cherry blossom scene.

Saturday, April 27 (Adults) 9 am–12 pm

CAMERA BASICS

INSTRUCTOR: Tabitha Blanski FEE: $40 members, $50 non-members Do you enjoy taking pictures but feel intimidated by all the functions on your camera? This class will demystify camera settings like f-stop, ISO and more. Become a more informed photographer and learn about composition, balance and light, then put your newly acquired knowledge to use as this class captures the beauty of Meijer Gardens. Bring your camera and dress for the weather.

Saturday, April 27 (Adults), 10 am–2 pm

INTRODUCTION TO SELF-PORTRAIT DRAWING

INSTRUCTOR: Damian Goidich FEE: $50 members, $60 non-members Using charcoal as a medium, learn how to successfully complete a self-portrait with ArtPrize artist Damian Goidich. Watch your likeness emerge as you explore the effects of light and shadow, how the pattern of shapes creates volume, and the correct proportions for self-portraits. Class limited to 12 students.

SPRINGTIME YOGA

INSTRUCTOR: Dean Jefferey FEE: $7 members, $17 non-members Join us for a refreshing and meditative session of yoga with instructor Dean Jeffery. This class will be held indoors with a peaceful view over our wetlands. Open to all ages and levels. Bring a yoga mat and a water bottle. Pre-registration is required.

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

INTRODUCTION TO BOTANICAL ILLUSTRATION

INSTRUCTOR: Olivia MacKay FEE: $65 members, $75 non-members Discover the art of plant illustration in a relaxed atmosphere in this two-part class specifically for beginners. Learn how to observe plants and flowers, then transfer what you see to paper using watercolors and micron pens. Leave with a foundation for future botanical illustration techniques. Class limited to 12 students.

FEE: $10 member child, $15 member adult $13 non-member child, $18 non-member adult Our evening hike will take us on the trails and pathways of Meijer Gardens as we wander and wonder together while learning to look closely at the signs of nature. Sally Triant, of Grow Wise Learning, will lead us in the process of starting a phenology journal. Each family member will take home a journal created to grow your connection to nature. The hike will take place rain or shine and will require appropriate attire and the ability to walk the trails.

Thursday, May 9 (Adults) 6–7:30 pm

NO FUSS ROSES*

INSTRUCTOR: Stacey Hirvela FEE: $25 members, $35 non-members Learn the timeline of the “rose revolution” and discover how fuss-free roses were developed. Find out how to properly care for these beauties to ensure plenty of striking blooms all season long. Compare the different varieties and receive tips on incorporating them in your home landscape.

Monday, May 13 (Adults) 4–5:30 pm

BASIL, BASIL, BASIL

INSTRUCTOR: Connie Hanson FEE: $40 members, $50 non-members This class offers students an eye-opening look at this easy to grow annual herb. Learn about cooking with this flavorful plant and the many varieties available to grow. Participants will sample several products made with basil and make a jar of “All Purpose Seasoning.” Participants will also take home a jar of Roasted Basil Salt, and three basil plants including sweet basil, lime basil, and the unique Pesto Perpetuo basil.

Monday, May 13 (Adults) 6:30–8 pm

LOVELY LAVENDER

Artwork by Damian Goidich.

Tuesday, April 30 (Adults), 6–7:30 pm TEA 101 INSTRUCTOR: Joana Hively FEE: $25 members, $35 non-members Join experts from Global Infusion to find out what tea is, where it is grown, and which methods of brewing work best. Learn the difference between white, green, black, oolong and pu’erh tea. Sample the different varieties to find your favorite!

INSTRUCTOR: Connie Hanson FEE: $40 members, $50 non-members Many would agree that lavender is the most useful herb in the garden! It can be grown for easy landscaping, as a food for pollinators, as a flavorful addition to many foods, for its distinct fragrance, or simply for its beauty. In addition to learning, guests will sample foods made with lavender, create a flavorful Herbes de Provence Blend, make a relaxing herbal sleep pillow, and take home three unique varieties of Lavender including Hidcote, Dutch, and Munstead.

CANCELLATION POLICY

CL ASSES

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

CONTAINER GARDENING CLASS SERIES: Sign up for one or register for all three. Saturday, April 13 (Adults) 10 am–12 pm

VEGETABLE CONTAINER GARDENS*

INSTRUCTOR: Stacey Hirvela FEE: $30 members $40 non-members Learn everything you need to know to successfully grow your own vegetables in containers. Finally get the secret to success with growing cilantro! Learn how to pair plants and pot sizes, what crops grow the fastest and which plants are beautiful enough to feature among your patio plantings.

Thursday, May 16 (Adults) 6–7:30 pm

PLANT A HANGING HERB BASKET*

INSTRUCTOR: Gwen Hughes FEE: $38 members, $48 non-members Plant a hanging basket filled with culinary herbs including parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme and basil. Receive tips on how to use these culinary favorites and how to care for them, ensuring a bountiful harvest. Class includes a tram ride to the Michigan’s Farm Garden and back to the parking lot after class, and a short tour of the Farm’s herb garden.

Thursday, May 23 (Adults) 6–7:30 pm

ORNAMENTAL CONTAINER GARDENS*

INSTRUCTOR: Tony England FEE: $25 members, $35 non-members Learn how to create eye catching container gardens that include tropical plants, summer annuals, chrysanthemums, shrubs, branches and more! Discover ways to utilize your container gardens throughout all four seasons and receive tips on designing them.

CANCELLATION POLICY

CLASSES

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

Friday, May 17 (Adults) 7:30–9 pm

Tuesday, May 21 (Adults) 6–7:30 pm

SPRING EVENING HIKE FOR ADULTS

FABULOUS PERENNIALS FOR SUNNY GARDENS*

INSTRUCTOR: Sally Triant FEE: $25 members, $35 non-members Keep your connection to nature and your curiosity alive by walking the garden trails in the evening to observe the signs of spring all around. Together with Sally Triant, of Grow Wise Learning, we will discover how to document these observations over time. Receive a journal to take home, created to begin this practice, and learn how to make one on your own. The hike will take place rain or shine and will require appropriate attire and the ability to walk the trails.

Saturday, May 18 (Adults) 10 am–1 pm

SPRING PHOTOGRAPHY: CAPTURING THE SEASON

INSTRUCTOR: Dianne Carroll Burdick FEE: $40 members, $50 non-members Learn about the joys of spring photography with photographer Dianne Carroll Burdick. Begin with a classroom presentation, then walk the garden paths with the class to photograph signs of spring. Bring a water bottle and as many lenses as you’d like to work with. Tripod and flash are optional.

Saturday, May 18 (Adults) 10 am–2 pm

ART JOURNALING ADVENTURE

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. Take home a 60-page journal for your ongoing practice.

Tuesday, May 21 (Adults) 4–5:30 pm

THE MOST RELIABLE PERENNIALS FOR SHADY GARDENS*

INSTRUCTOR: Barb Balgoyen FEE: $25 members, $35 non-members That shady spot in your garden doesn’t have to be bare! Learn to select and care for the best shade-loving perennials. From foliage to colorful blooms, discover tips to ensure your success, all summer long.

INSTRUCTOR: Barb Balgoyen FEE: $25 members, $35 non-members Discover perennials with gorgeous, long lasting blooms, dazzling colors and fabulous foliage. Be inspired by winning combinations for a gorgeous garden from early spring through late fall.

Tuesday, May 21 (Adults) 6–8 pm

ZENTANGLE AT THE FARM

INSTRUCTOR: Marjorie Goosen FEE: $30 members, $40 non-members No experience necessary to participate in this drawing experience, creating unique and beautiful images inspired by our Michigan’s Farm Garden! Learn simple repetitive patterns from a trained Zentangle instructor, then add your own flair using a Sakura pen, which is yours to take home.

Saturday, June 1 (Adults) 10am–3pm

OUTDOOR PASTEL BOOTCAMP

INSTRUCTOR: Kathleen Kalinowski FEE: $75 members, $85 non-members Relax and unwind in one of the tranquil pocket gardens of The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden as you capture flowers, trees and water using chalk pastels. Start with a short lesson in the classroom, then head outside as a group to use your newly acquired skills. At the instructor’s discretion, a break will be given during the class to briefly review work and grab a snack in the café. Café snack voucher is included in the class fee.

Monday, June 3 (Adults), 6–7:30 pm

WINE ON THE ROOF*

FEE: $20 members, $30 non-members Join our Director of Horticulture, Steve LaWarre, and Director of Sculpture Exhibitions and Installations, Laurene Grunwald, for an evening atop the new Padnos Rooftop Sculpture Garden! Enjoy a glass of wine as Steve discusses some of the reasons why rooftop gardens have become so popular—from nurturing the environment to providing another option for public access to green space. Then, listen as Laurene describes the sculptures that will be placed to enhance this garden.

2019 SUMMER CAMPS ONE-DAY CAMPS

Your child must fit in the listed age range by the first day of camp.

Visit website MeijerGardens.org for full descriptions of each class.

FOUR-DAY CAMPS

Monday, June 10 (Age 3 with Adult) 10–11:30am

June 17–20 (Ages 8-9) 9:30 am–12 pm

July 15–18 (Ages 10 – 14) 9:30 am–12 pm

NEW! GRANDPARENT AND ME: TOTALLY TURTLES

ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN

FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members

PHOTO OPS

FEE: $18 member child, $18 member adult $22 non-member child, $22 non-member adult

Tuesday, June 11 (Ages 4–5 with Adult) 10–11:30 am OR 2–3:30 pm

GRANDPARENT AND ME: PLANT PALS

FEE: $18 member child, $18 member adult $22 non-member child, $22 non-member adult

Monday, July 8 (Ages 9–12) 9 am–2 pm

INVESTIGATE THE JAPANESE GARDEN FEE: $55 members, $65 non-members Bring lunch and a water bottle.

Monday, August 5 (Ages 8-9) 9 am–2 pm

NEW: PHOTOGRAPHING ANIMALS FEE: $55 members, $65 non-members Bring lunch and a water bottle.

Monday, August 12 (Ages 6-9) 9 am–2 pm

PLENTY OF ART

FEE: $55 members, $65 non-members Bring lunch and a water bottle.

TWO-DAY CAMPS

Every Monday and Tuesday, 9 am–2 pm June 17 AND 18 (Ages 6-7)

EVERYDAY EXPLORERS

June 17–20 OR July 29–August 1 (Ages 4-5) 9:30 am–12 pm

MOVIN’ AROUND THE GARDENS FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members

June 17–20 OR August 5–8 (Ages 6-7) 9:30 am–12 pm

PAINT EXPLORATION

FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members

June 24–27 (Ages 4-5) 9:30 am–12 pm

SILLY SCULPTURE

FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members

July 8–11 (Ages 4-5) 9:30 am–12 pm

CREATURE FEATURE

FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members

July 15–18 (Ages 8-9) 9:30 am–12 pm

ADVENTURES IN DRAWING

FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members

July 15–18 (Ages 6-7) 9:30 am–12 pm

AMAZING ANIMALS

FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members

FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members Bring lunch and a water bottle.

July 15–18 (Ages 4 – 5) 9:30 am–12 pm

July 22 AND 23 (Ages 10–12)

BUCKETS OF PAINT

BUILD A MODEL TREE HOUSE

FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members

FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members Bring lunch and a water bottle.

July 22–25 (Ages 6 – 7) 9:30 am–12 pm

CLAY EVERY DAY

FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members

July 22–25 (Ages 4-5) 9:30 am–12 pm

JEEPERS CREEPERS

FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members

July 22–25 (Ages 8-9) 9:30 am–12 pm

NEW! SUPER SUMMER SCULPTURE FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members

July 29–August 1 OR August 5–8 (Ages 4-5) 9:30 am–12 pm

LITTLE DIGGERS

FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members

July 29–August 1 (Ages 10-14) 9:30 am–12 pm

OUTDOOR WATERCOLOR

FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members

July 29–August 1 (Ages 6–7) 9:30 am–12 pm

ROCKS AND FOSSILS

FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members

August 5–8 (Ages 10–14) 9:30–12 pm

NEW! ANIMATED CLAY SCULPTURES FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members iPads will be provided for use in the camp.

FIVE-DAY CAMP

August 12 AND 13 (Ages 6–8)

CURIOUS AND CREATIVE KIDS

June 24–28 OR July 8–12 (Ages 6–8) 8:30 am–4:30 pm

FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members Bring lunch and a water bottle.

CAMP KALEIDOSCOPE: A WACKY WEEK OF FUN

August 12 AND 13 (Ages 8-9)

THE GREAT LAKES ADVENTURE FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members Bring lunch and a water bottle.

FEE: $85 members, $95 non-members iPads will be provided to use for the camp.

Photo by Peter McDaniel.

FEE: $225 members, $250 non-members Bring lunch and a water bottle. A nut-free snack is provided each day. CLASSES

Sculptor Richard Hunt, with Fred and Lena Meijer at the opening of the sculpture galleries in 2000. Hunt’s sculpture Which Way, Points of Reference and Departure can be seen in the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory during this exhibition. Photo by Chuck Heiney.

A National Treasure: Fred Meijer, His Collection and Legacy

Friday, February 1—Sunday, August 25, 2019

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

Bill Padnos & Margy Kaye The Louis and Helen Padnos Foundation The Meijer 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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SPRING 2019 Volume 10, Issue 2

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation

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

Few American cultural philanthropists have had such a transformative impact on regional, national and international audiences as Frederik G.H. Meijer. Because of his legacy of extraordinary support and open-minded approach to collecting significant works of sculpture, the permanent collection at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is regularly celebrated as one of the world’s finest and an ongoing source of enjoyment to legions of visitors from every walk of life. Sharing his renowned collection gave Fred great joy. Once on a tour with former President Jimmy Carter, Fred humbly suggested that Meijer Gardens was becoming a regional asset, to which the former president paused and said, “No, Fred, you are building a National Treasure.” Timed to coincide with the centenary of Fred’s birth, this landmark exhibition charts the milestones of the collector and his collection–one of the most compelling stories in American cultural history.

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.

ONGOING