It’s called the gallery with no walls for a good reason.
It sounds like painters planting flowers and vegetables but Art in the Garden at First Choice Tree Nursery and Garden Centre is about more than just bringing people together to enjoy culture and horticulture.
“We put a lot of emphasis on art,” said designer and promoter Cory Christopher, “and it becomes unobtainable for some people. Going to art galleries can be a very intimidating experience. It can be very unfriendly.”
Naturally, the nursery’s creative director saw the warmth of a welcoming greenhouse as a way for people to branch out and expand their horizons.
“I wanted to put [art] in a place that felt safe and secure where there’s an opportunity for intimacy between engager and art. As an art lover and a garden lover, I thought marrying the two together would be an incredible opportunity for people. I think nature is a piece of art and I think we often forget that. We’re losing our connection to the ground and our ability to garden.”
Starting at the end of next week, visitors to the facility will be delighted with visions of beauty from the natural world plus fashion and art, too.
The facility will feature works from more than 20 local artists including Judy Leila Schafers, Heather Edwards, Pearl Der, Sharon Nolan, as well as Laura Watmough and her students at Hidden Talent. People can meet the artists on either June 25 or July 9, another way that Christopher hopes to make art friendlier.
“I think it makes it much more meaningful and personal to understand who’s creating the art. It gives you an opportunity to engage even further with the piece of art.”
There will also be events to stimulate the senses including yoga, a kids’ art day and an exploration of the art of French oil diffuser lamps from Lampe Berger.
There’s a dash of health consciousness and community celebration as well. The Couture Botanique charity raffle will be held with proceeds to benefit the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute.
The third annual Art in the Garden runs from Friday, June 24 to Sunday, July 10. First Choice is located at 56032 R.R. 245 near Morinville. Admission is free.
A gala event will take place on Thursday, June 23 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $50.
For more information call 780-939-4448 or visit www.firstchoicetreenursery.ca.
