After enjoying a very pleasant evening with Judy & Bob in East Lansing, we departed Lansing this morning and headed west to Grand Rapids. Our goal was to explore the exquisite outdoor and indoor sculpture conservatories of Meijer Gardens, just north of Grand Rapids.
The Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park is 132 acres of gardens designed by world renowned landscape artists as well as natural meadows, woodlands and wetlands. Set within this landscaped wonderland are works by Andy Goldsworthy, Dale Chihuly, Pablo Picasso, Rodin, and many other masterworks. Even the cafe features a ceiling of Chihuly glass art!
There are 80 foot high greenhouses that feature different ecosystems, such as an arid desert, a tropical forest and a huge carnivorous plant display. There is an outdoor amphitheater (The Beach Boys & Sheryl Crowe coming this week!), koi ponds and miles of trails with dozens of sculptures placed around the ponds and gardens.
The sculpture art covers the entire range including classic, whimsical and modern. Speaking to one of the 700 volunteers (!!!) who lovingly care for this facility, Frederik Meijer's artistic sophistication evolved as he amassed his sculpture collection.
 |
| Life is a balancing act...? |
 |
| Deep contemplation....! |
One amazing 24 foot tall sculpture is called "American Horse". Interestingly, the original design was by Leonardo da Vinci and the entire story to bring his design to fruition encompasses 500 years--this hyperlink tells the full story! Unfortunately, the flat light from an approaching thunderstorm darkened the images from my iPhone camera--the photos in the Equitrekking hyperlink are much superior to mine.
The bronze couple on the bench are actually Fred & Lena Meijer. The remaining photos are a collection showing the variety of sculpture in Meijer Gardens!
 |
| A Rodin masterwork! |
 |
| Very deep intent in this piece of sculpture..... |
 |
| Neurological axonal lightning? |
 |
| Interesting study technique!!! |
After leaving Meijer Gardens, we headed further west to the shores of Lake Michigan and the nicely renovated waterfront of Grand Haven. We accumulated some great "Fitbit steps" on the 2-mile boardwalk that extends out to the Grand Haven South Pierhead Inner Lighthouse. Unfortunately, no pictures as I left my iPhone in the car! :(
Posted by TBW Travel Today!
No comments:
Post a Comment