$1 Night
Thursday, February 5, 5 - 8 pm
On the first Thursday night of the month we offer $1 admissions, 5-8 pm, for adults and children. Babies and up to age 2 are still admitted free. This is a great time to see the High Places, Hidden Spaces display with your family. For more info, call (260) 427-6440.
“Once Upon a Time” Day
Saturday, February 8, 10 am – 3 pm
To highlight the new “High Places, Hidden Spaces” exhibit, the Botanical Conservatory will offer a special event that guides children and adults to make their own story in their garden. Enjoy a journey of the imagination and create your own ‘once upon a time.’ Participants throughout the event times can enjoy face painting, games, and activities that develop their chosen character. Costumes encouraged. Free popcorn and punch provided for all adventurers. No reservations; regular Conservatory admission fees apply: $5/adult, $3/child age 3-17. Children 2 and under admitted free. For more information, call (260) 427-6440 or visit our website at http://www.botanicalconservatory.org/ href="http://www.botanicalconservatory.org/">www.botanicalconservatory.org.
Science Fun: “Fruit”ful DNA
Saturday, February 15, 11am & 1pm
Every cell in every living thing has DNA or deoxyribonucleic acid, a molecule that contains all the information about that particular organism. Human beings and animals might be the first things that come to mind when thinking about DNA, which is correct. But what if it was…fruit? Join us as we extract DNA from a piece of fruit and change the ordinary view of this amazing molecule. Pre-registration is not required and the program is free with regular Conservatory admission. For more info call (260) 427-6440.
Family Garden Close-Up: Plant or Flower?
Saturday, February 22, 11am-1pm
You have probably referred to a plant as a flower before or vice versa and not even realized it. That’s okay because this close-up is sure to set you as straight as the stem of a flower… or plant. You’ll learn the difference between the two and even look for some in our beautiful Showcase exhibit ‘High Places, Hidden Spaces’. Drop-in program; no reservations needed. Free with regular Conservatory admission. For more info call (260) 427-6440.
Knead It!
Saturday, February 22, 10 am - Noon
Enjoy the nourishment and pleasure of fresh-baked bread after learning foundational skills from Leigh Rowan of Big Brick House Bakery. You’ll mix a whole-wheat dough, knead it, and let it rise before taking your loaf home to bake. Leigh begins with freshly milled flour to maximize nutrition and uses as many local ingredients as possible. Our instructor has received an Indiana Artisan award and has six years in the business. Please bring your own loaf pan (9”x5”), kitchen towel or cheese cloth, mixing bowl, stirring spoon, and measuring spoons and cups. Ages 10-adult. Registration deadline: February 14. Min. 10. Max. 20. $19/public; $14/Conservatory member or volunteer. Refer to class code 127032-S1 and call 260-427-6000 to register. Held at the Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun St.
Botanical Brown Bag: Wild Winter Edibles
Thursday, February 27, 12 – 1 pm
What can we eat from Nature’s bounty at this time of the year, when the cold of winter is upon us? Do we have any greens, roots, or fruits? Surely there are some berries and nuts, right? Could you survive the dormant season in northeastern Indiana? Come see for yourself as naturalist and environmental guru Michael Gobert walks you through winter’s edible wild foods found in this area. You might want to save room for some of these tasty morsels that Nature has to offer since a sampling will be included. Coffee and tea are free. $5/adult; $3/child or Conservatory member or volunteer at the door. For more information, call (260) 427-6440.
Tai Chi in the Garden I & II
Tuesday evenings, Through March 4
Advanced class 5-6 pm
Beginners class 6-7 pm
Learn to relax your body and focus your mind with the ancient art of Tai Chi, a gentle, graceful exercise to improve health and fitness. It is especially effective in reducing stress, which can relieve arthritis, diabetes and other chronic conditions. Weekly sessions include a meditative walk in the garden. The class focuses on the basics of the Sun form and is great for new students or those wishing to continue their studies. Instructor Sandy Gebhard is certified by renowned master Dr. Paul Lam, and has 30+ years’ experience practicing and teaching Tai Chi. Students may drop in for $10 per session, up to the class maximum. Drop-ins should call ahead to make sure class will be in session: (260) 427-6440. Ages 18-adult. Held at the Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun St.
Art Exhibit, Through Feb: Lisa Ransom Smith -- Pastels
Since 1998, Lisa has been exploring the beauty and versatility of a mysterious and often misunderstood medium, pastel. Her landscapes capture interactions of light that prompt the viewer to wonder, “What lies beyond?” Lisa was invited to display in the Holy Calm of Nature exhibit at FWMOA in April 2005 and was accepted as a Signature Member of the Pastel Society of America. In 2012, Lisa won Artlink’s AVA Award for Outstanding Painter. See Lisa’s work on exhibit at the Conservatory through February. Regular Conservatory admission applies: $5/adult, $3/child age 3-17, free for children 2 and under. For more information, call (260) 427-6440.
High Places, Hidden Spaces exhibit
Through April 6
Find adventure where the beauty and mystery of a garden draws out the fun of pretend play. Discover cozy hiding spots, bird’s-eye views, secret trails and nature-based activities. Spend a few pleasant winter hours exploring all the nooks and crannies designed into our newest garden exhibit: climb the towers, brave the garden tunnel, find the hidden castle, and meet a cast of characters. Weave an imaginative tale, starting with a random story opener and following clues to build the adventure. Then, share your story with others! Winter primroses and cyclamen color the scene. For more information, call (260) 427-6440 or visit our website at http://www.botanicalconservatory.org/ href="http://www.botanicalconservatory.org/">www.botanicalconservatory.org.
