EARTH of the

Art and nature are a timeless pairing drawn from basic human instinct and the desire to create. The grounds of the Morton Arboretum in Lisle are a conduit of that artistic expression, founded through the elements of nature. Their latest exhibition, “Of the Earth,” was created by Polish American artist Olga Ziemska, whose large-scale sculptures can now be found throughout the nature conservatory.

Ziemska’s work is about the connectivity between human beings and nature. “As Olga says, ‘everything that is on the earth, is of the earth,’ so obviously that resonates with the Arboretum’s mission to connect people with nature and trees,” says Head of Exhibitions, Amy Scott. “We also liked the fact that she uses reclaimed materials in her work, and we had volunteers come help collect and prune materials for three of the pieces she created.”

Ziemska is based out of Cleveland, Ohio, but her works can be found throughout the world. “Her last name actual means ‘earthly,’ or ‘of the earth,’” says Scott. “She is also the first women we’ve had do a large-scale installation. We are super excited about that.”

In total, there are five sculptures erected within the grounds of the Arboretum. “They range anywhere from five to fourteen feet tall, and the longest piece is 45 feet long,” says Scott. “Four of the pieces are on the east side and one of [them] is on the west side.”

You can find “Stillness in Motion, the Matka Series,” in Arbor Court, “Strata” within the Rose Family Collection, “Hear: With an ear to the ground” by Meadow Lake and “Ona” on the west side overlooking the DuPage River.

“’Stillness in Motion’ is her signature piece,” says Scott. “She has done that piece three other times in Poland, South Korea and Romania. This is her first time doing it in the US and Matka means ‘mother’ in Polish. ‘Hear: with an ear to the ground’ is very accessible and easy to reach. ‘Strata’ is our largest piece.”

Each sculpture is unique and deeply meaningful. Take time to escape into the lively world of the Morton Arboretum and be amazed by the wondrous beauty of Olga Ziemska’s work.

When it comes to shopping excursions, it’s hard to beat an open-air market featuring unique artisanal products. Each tent, complete with a curated selection of handcrafted items, is a singular experience. Find your next treasure at one of Chicagoland’s art and craft fairs this summer!