San Francisco Botanical Garden

Helen Crocker Russell Library of Horticulture

Library Events

Art Exhibit

"Nature Observed"

Watercolors by Thomas P. Rohlen
January 5 – April 30, 2010

San Francisco Botanical Garden Society presents Nature Observed, an exhibition of watercolors by Thomas P. Rohlen.

From the Artist's Statement
I have discovered the deep satisfactions of watercolor illustration. Some might regard representational painting of natural things as an antiquated and humble art form, but I am greatly drawn to it for what it gives me.

“In submitting to the intimacy of nature's details we gain access to a timeless relationship with pattern, color, and light.”

Observed closely, the details of nature are so remarkably beautiful and wondrous. This is an art form that requires careful observation and patient development of a closely worked approximation of what is just there before us. The details are full of marvelous surprises. In submitting to the intimacy of nature’s details we gain access to a timeless relationship with pattern, color, and light. I find a particular delight in this form of art, also, because it reveals the glory of simple things.

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DETAILS



        

DATES

January 5 - April 30, 2010

                      

                      ARTISTS' RECEPTION 

          Thursday, January 14

5:00 – 7:00 pm

Helen Crocker Russell Library


          

            FOR SALE

          Original watercolors and prints for sale at the Helen Crocker Russell Library with a portion of proceeds supporting the library.

When it is the natural object that is the central focus, rather than “self-expression” or “creativity,” one is introduced to the profound depths of the world around us, a world outside ourselves, but right there, all the same. The perspectives of art critics, current artistic fashions, and one’s own vanities recede before the simplest object, quietly observed.

Satisfaction in an honest rendering is a reward within reach for me-- one that never fails to give back more than this artist can hope to contribute.

Exhibits

Included in three shows of botanical art at Filoli (juried), 2005-8.
Included in a show of Catherine Watters¹ students work at the Helen Crocker Russell Library, 2008.
Included in the collection of Quarryhill Botanical Garden (Glen Ellen, CA).

A special evening reception for the artist will be held at the Library on Thursday, January 14, from 5:00 to 7:00pm. The reception is open to the public and admission is free.

General Exhibit Information

The Helen Crocker Russell Library of Horticulture is open every day from 10:00am to 4:00pm, except for major holidays, free of charge. The artwork in the exhibition is available for sale, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Library. For more information call (415) 661-1316 ext. 403. Exhibitions of plant- and garden-related drawings, paintings, photographs, and educational displays run for three-month periods.

Story Time & Family Walk

Looking for a fun, free and easy-to-coordinate activity? Join us in our cozy children’s book nook with comfy kid-sized cushions, a bevy of stuffed animals and lively readers.

Afterward, families can enjoy a special children's tour of the garden led by a docent. Be sure to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

This event is suitable for children ages 4-8. Held on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of every month at 10:30 am, Story Time lasts approximately 30 minutes. The tour leaves the Library at 11. The Library also has an excellent collection of books for children on plants, natural history, general science, and nature-related myths and stories.

2010 Storytime Schedule:
Recommended Reading

New Books and Old Favorites Including a Featured Book each month.

January 3rd and 17th
February 7th and 21st
February 13: Lunar New Year Storytime
March 7th and 21st
April 18th
May 2nd and 16th
June 6th and 20th
July 18th
August 1st and 15th
September 5th and 19th
October 3rd and 17th
November 7th and 21st
December 5th and 19th

Find out about more events and activities for kids.

Library Orientations

Orientations can be arranged by appointment for interested groups.

CBHL Member of the Council on Botanical and Horticultural Libraries An international organization whose purpose is to initiate and improve communications among persons and institutions concerned with the development, maintenance and use of libraries of botanical and horticultural literature.