.png)
Like so many of you, I love spending time in the Museum’s sculpture garden. When it was first installed more than twenty years ago, designer Nancy Goslee Power made sure that at least one plant or plant species was at its full peak at any given time in the year, so that regardless of when you visit, something is in its most beautiful state.
But to me, spring is still the most magical time to enjoy the garden — the tulip and coral trees are starting to green, the irises bordering the pond start to flower, and the creatures who make the garden home seem to welcome the warmer weather.
Over the years, I’ve gotten to know Nancy and work on several projects that celebrate this magical retreat, including the book A Living Work of Art, which features the stunning photography of Tim Street-Porter, who documented the garden over the course of a year, as well as several videos that highlight the garden’s transformation and design.
While it will be a little longer before we welcome back visitors, for those who are missing the garden, I encourage you to explore these resources from home.
– Leslie C. Denk, Director of External Affairs
Explore the Sculpture Garden
Nancy Goslee Power and the Transformation of the Norton Simon Museum Sculpture Garden | WATCH
The Norton Simon Museum Sculpture Garden | WATCH
A Living Work of Art: The Norton Simon Museum Sculpture Garden | EXPLORE
A Conversation with Tim Street-Porter, Photographer | READ
Meditative Moments: Restorative Meditation
Devotion to Bhaishajyaguru, or the Medicine Buddha, is widely practiced in Tibet, Japan and China. He is seen as a healer of both physical and spiritual suffering.
In this sculpture of Bhaishajyaguru, we see the Buddha with elongated earlobes and a topknot, wearing a patchwork robe and sitting in the vajrásana pose with his right foot crossed over his left. In his right hand he holds a myrobalan fruit, known for its medicinal properties, while his left palm is open and rests in his lap.
Contemplate the Bhaishajyaguru’s curative powers and take a restorative moment for yourself. | MEDITATE
DIY Stories: Alma and How She Got Her Name and Doña Francisca Vicenta Chollet y Caballero
We are pairing some of our favorite children’s books with works of art from our collection for you to enjoy with your child at home.
This week, read how a young girl learns about the family history represented in her very long name in Juana Martinez-Neal’s book Alma and How She Got Her Name. Then take a look at Francisco de Goya y Lucientes’ Doña Francisca Vicenta Chollet y Caballero, a Spanish noblewoman whose name likewise documents her ancestral lineage.
Inspired by these subjects, create an artwork that expresses the special meaning behind your name. | READ & CREATE
What We’re Watching: The Met’s Goya’s Graphic Imagination
Assistant Curator Maggie Bell shares: “The Met released a ‘virtual opening’ for their current exhibition Goya’s Graphic Imagination, which includes a tour led by Mark McDonald, Curator of Prints and Drawings. The video showcases Goya’s range and inventiveness by offering close-up views of these fascinating images. I found this particularly enjoyable because I miss being able to visit our collection of Goya’s wonderful works on paper.” | WATCH
In Our Online Store: In the Garden
As we welcome in the new spring season, browse our collection of books, prints, cards and games that celebrate the beauty of nature and both public and private gardens. | SHOP
