FLORIGAMI IN THE GARDEN Is Now On View

After a two-month winter break, Tulsa Botanic Garden is back open! And not only that, but they debuted FLORIGAMI IN THE GARDEN on their re-opening day. FLORIGAMI IN THE GARDEN on features origami-inspired sculptural installations created by Kevin Box, many in collaboration with his wife, Jennifer Box, and origami artists Te Jui Fu, Beth Johnson, Michael G. LaFosse and Robert J. Lang. The sculptures are spread throughout the entirety of Tulsa Botanic Garden, from the new Jim and Cherry Bost Arboretum to the top of the Tandy Floral Terraces.

The sculptures are both whimsical and consider the viewers to think about themes like motherhood, growth, peace, etc. Be sure to read the plaques by each installation, as they provide both an explanation of what the work represents and some discussion questions. The plaque in front of “Scents of Sincerity, Rose Kusudama,” asked the question, “What would the delicate fragrance of a mother’s unconditional love look like? Perhaps a bunch of roses, with petals that are round and full.” It goes on to explain about the Kusudama origami method used for roses like this, which involves “combining 30 squares of paper without cutting them.” (See photo below)

But even if you don’t read the explanations, you – and your kids – are sure to get a lot of enjoyment out of the spinning flowers, frolicking ponies, friendly bunnies, etc. Grab a scavenger hunt in the visitor center, and check the backsides of the sculptures, as there are often small, surprise metal butterflies to find! The whole collection practically springs “spring,” and is a wonderful way to get into the spirit of the season!

Keep an eye out for two “Stars of the Show” platforms, which gives a visual overview of how folding a piece of paper results in a finished origami sculpture. I always get so mixed up when trying to fold origami, the number of folds that go into some of these pieces is astounding to me.

Our favorite sculpture was “Caravan,” which shows three animal friends on a journey together. What will your favorite piece be?

Tulsa Botanic Blooms

While the garden is always lovely, it will be truly incredible in the next few weeks. We did see some daffodils and other spring flowers starting to show, but Tulsa Botanic Garden staff members have planted more than 150,000 bulbs that will all be blooming soon. So we hope to visit again in a couple of weeks to get the ultimate show, with FLORIGAMI and thousands of tulips, etc. Follow @tulsabotanicgarden for updates on what’s blooming.

Planning Your Visit

Tulsa Botanic Garden is open Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. However, the garden will be open till 8 p.m. on Thursdays starting April 3.

Tickets are $15 for ages 16+, and $10 for ages 3-15. Children under 3 get in free. Members receive free regular daytime admission. We got a membership on our last visit, and it was really nice to be able to just show up and check in. If you do visit and pay for tickets and then decide you’d like a membership before leaving, I believe they will count your ticket prices toward the membership, which is helpful.

FLORIGAMI IN THE GARDEN is included with general admission. Learn more at tulsabotanic.org/visit