In the Garden

I couldn't have requested a nicer day. The sky was clear and sunny as we took a 7-hour stroll through Brookgreen Gardens. The sculptures were absolutely fantastic, as was the company. I had the pleasure of driving down to SC with Lesli to meet up with fellow artist Sarah Minkiewicz-Breunig, and her husband, Chris at Brookgreen. It was a jolly good time, to say the least! I hadn't seen Sarah in some time, and it was a pleasure meeting her gregarious spouse. We all arrived at Brookgreen at the same time- about an hour earlier than planned, and all but knocked into each other at the entrance. We took off at full steam, eager to see the park, and all it beheld. Our enthusiasm lasted all day, and we pretty well covered the 50 acres that made up the sculpture garden and zoo area. By the time we finished, there were only three cars left in the parking lot... our two, and a third being towed! It seems it had been closed 1/2 an hour by the time we made it back. We joked that our cars were next, if we didn't vamoose!

One of the smaller pieces- "Gold 'n Locks"

I still haven't been able to wrap my head around all that I saw. For those of you who aren't followers of Lesli's Blog (check out her recent post for some of our sillier antics!), Brookgreen Gardens was originally part of a wealthy estate that had been converted to a public venue to preserve historical sculpture, and promote new artists. They have over 1000 pieces in their collection, many of which are on display throughout the garden. Many of the pieces were sculpted by women, and many of them feature equines, which made it the perfect spot for us female equine artists to meet! The sculptures range from tiny models and medallions, to towering displays. I've posted a few of my favorites below, to give y'all an idea of my experience. But I highly recommend that if ever you find yourself along the coast of South Carolina, that you check out Brookgreen for yourself!

I was very taken with these Otters, and how the artist had captured their playfulness in such a fascinating composition.

The detail was exquisite. You can click on any of these photos for larger versions.

This piece was done in the 1930's I believe... Art Deco hearkening back to Art Nouveau. I loved it!


They had an amazing number of intricate medallions on display in a building at the gardens. This was one of the larger ones, and I thought it thoroughly cool.


Look at the longhorns! There was a special display of Western Art.


Laura, this centaur is for you...


Holy Marsh Tackies! There was a smallish zoo with native species at Brookgreen. Marsh Tackies are a rare breed of the Carolinas, and, as the name suggests, good at tramping through marshes. This gal was such a pretty dun!


My intrepid companions, on our last leg though the park. It was quickly decided that dinner was in order soon after, and that led to a new adventure in burgers. Really, if you have not yet read Lesli's Blog, you should! I'll post Sarah's Blog, after she gets back to Idaho & posts...

That's all folks!