I had the pleasure of taking my niece and nephew to Matthaei Botanical Gardens when they visited from Chicago over the holidays. Of course, we started with the art show, and right on cue, as I was showing them my two works, a volunteer walked down the hall and said mine were among her favorites. "It's so calming," she said of "Zen Magnolias," which uses Mixed Media to represent textures that suggest soil, decay, sprouts, and leaves in an ancient mix. Ultimately, the magnolia blooms. That was one of my best gifts of the season, to be praised before my family! From there, we met my husband and all went into the conservatory, with its earthy smell and blinding ambient light. There was plenty to entertain everyone as the "50 Shades of Green" program continues through January 5, including an extra event on January 4 with live animals from noon to 2 p.m. As always, it's all free. Go to http://thecreatureconservancy.org/ and http://www.lsa.umich.edu/mbg/happening/50ShadesOfGreen.asp. Happy New Year!
