The Cleveland Botanical Garden has a lineup of special events throughout the summer for “Between Water and Stone: Celebrating 50 Years of Our Japanese Garden.”
Discover the timeless harmony of nature and design. Explore quiet spaces, delicate bonsai, calming activities, and stories that reveal the deeper meaning behind each stone and bloom. The exhibit extends beyond the Japanese Garden, inviting visitors to learn about the origins and intentions behind the space and to appreciate the conscious and traditional elements and values of Japanese garden design.
Japanese Garden-themed events this summer include:
Make & Take: Ikenobo Ikebana, Tuesday, June 17, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Ikebana flower arranging is a traditional Japanese art spanning centuries, of which the Ikenobo School is the oldest and most traditional. With guidance from a local expert, participants in this program will learn the basic principles and style of Ikenobo and create a fresh flower arrangement to take home and enjoy. Beginners are welcome. Flowers, kenzan, and a basic container will be provided to take home. Cost: $50 per member, $65 per nonmember. Make & Take: Ikenobo Ikebana Resistration.
Zen Through the Lens: Capturing the Essence of a Japanese Garden, Sunday, June 22, 8 a.m. – noon
Japanese Gardens are a unique and timeless art form that embraces serenity and natural tranquility for contemplation. We’ll photograph all of the textures, small details, leading lines, stone arrangements and vibrant green elements will be appreciated by our senses and offer an abundance of photographic opportunities. A basic understanding of your camera is necessary. Tripods will be allowed during the workshop. Cost: $60 per member, $100 per nonmember. Zen Through the Lens Registration.
Columbus Koto Ensemble with Shojoji Japanese Dancers, Saturday, June 28, 1 – 3 p.m.
The performance opens with Cleveland’s Shojoji Dancers, followed by the Columbus Koto Ensemble. The koto is a traditional Japanese instrument, similar to a harp or a dulcimer. With their broad musical repertoire from folk tunes to anime favorites, the Columbus Koto Ensemble showcases the history, culture, and versatility of this beautiful sound. Cost: $25 per member, $35 per nonmember. Columbus Koto Ensemble Registration.
Between Water & Stone Celebration – Thursday, August 21, 6 – 9 p.m.
Learn origami and traditional Japanese dance from ShoJoJi Japanese dancers, then meet the horticulturist behind the care of the Japanese Garden. Included with admission.
SUMMER HOURS
The Cleveland Botanical Garden is open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Thursdays when it’s open from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Admission before 5 p.m. is $20 per adult and $14 per child ages three to 12 (free for children two and under). On Thursdays after 5 p.m., discounted admission is $10 for adults and $7 for children ages three to 12. Admission is free for Holden Forests & Gardens members.
For information about other summer events, visit holdenfg.org.
Photo courtesy of Holden Forests and Gardens
