When you think about a botanical garden, you may picture lush landscapes, colorful blooms and a collection of trees. Smith-Gilbert Gardens offers yet another element to nature – Art! Located in Kennesaw, Georgia and nestled in seventeen beautiful acres, Smith-Gilbert Gardens features thirty outdoor sculptures. These sculptures were originally acquired by Dr. Bob Gilbert and Richard Smith. As avid art collectors, Smith and Gilbert placed artwork of various materials in nature. New and emerging artists from around the country were either invited to create a new piece or their work was purchased from a national exhibit.
Fast forward to 2021- the first Art Blooms! The Gardens launched Art Blooms in the spring (April and May) to showcase the permanent collection. Thousands of daffodil bulbs and spring blooms were planted around some of the permanent pieces setting the stage for a colorful exhibit! In addition to the permanent sculpture collection, Art Blooms invited local and regional artists to be part of a temporary exhibit- just as Smith and Gilbert supported the arts. The first year created a great partnership with Kennesaw State University’s Master Craftsman program. Students toured the Gardens and designed artwork inspired by nature. The following year the Gardens received support by Georgia Council for the Arts and Cobb EMC Foundation to fund more art, and artists. Visitors now had the opportunity to see student pieces, professional pieces and collaborative work created with a partnership with Cobb County Schools Fine Arts department. The new initiative with Cobb County schools gave students a hands on experience with an artist to create a sculpture together. The piece is exhibited at the Gardens as part of Art Blooms and later installed permanently at the school as public art. This program continues to grow with new artists and different students each year!
The Seedling
It is an exciting time at Smith-Gilbert Gardens as we see the arts grow. Sculptures are now just one aspect of Art Blooms. Partnerships with KSU includes the Theatre and Performance Studies Department with an immersive theater experience called The Seedling. The performances on April 21-29 allows families to participate alongside actors to learn about nature. The Fabric and Textile Department opens an exhibit, April 22 through 29 with garments and fabric designs inspired by the Gardens. Artists demonstrations also take place on Saturdays during the two months. See how nature connects to our vibrant arts community. Visit www.smithgilbertgardens to learn more.
If you would like to contribute to the Smith-Gilbert Garden Foundation Capital Fund, you may do so here.
