ART BLOOMS

Experience the permanent art collection surrounded by spring color. Daffodils and other colorful perennials set the stage for various sculptures throughout the Gardens. Each year, visitors will also be able to view the work of local and regional artists through a temporary exhibit. 

BONSAI EXHIBIT

The bonsais exhibit at Smith-Gilbert Gardens is a highlight of our collection. Learn about the art form every second Saturday of the month from curator, Rodney Clemons during our bonsai study session.

Exhibit is open April through October and closed for winterization from November through March. Dates for winterization are subject to change.

A Garden with Wings Butterfly House

Opened in 2016, A Garden with Wings Butterfly House is a seasonal treat for adults and children alike!

Open annually in July, the exhibit features native butterflies and their host and nectar plants. Visitors can expect to encounter the wonder of butterflies in all stages of life, from egg to adult butterfly. Host plants such as tulip poplar and passionflower vine serve as great caterpillar watching stations, and nectar plants like lantana and butterfly weed provide awesome opportunities to watch these pollinators in action. 

From there, you can hop on over to the Pollinator Garden, where you will find not only butterflies but honey bees, hummingbirds and other important pollinators at work. Both gardens showcase plants that grow well in the Georgia climate, providing the opportunity to check out what might work in your own backyard!

Stay tuned to our calendar for the opening and closing dates of this fan favorite exhibit! 

A Healthier You

The Gardens create the perfect setting for health and wellness. During September and October, take a walking challenge through the trails, meditate while you enjoy a yoga class or capture nature on canvas with a plein air workshop. These are just some of the ways you and your family can achieve ‘A Healthier You” at the Gardens.

 

Sculpture Collection

Bob Gilbert and Richard Smith were avid art collectors. The permanent sculpture collection was mindfully acquired through visits to exhibits around the country and artists commissions. Their support of new and emerging artists led to a collection of work that indicates a period of time in each artists’ development. Learn more about each work of art and the artist who created it through interpretive panels provided in the Gardens and tours given by Art Ambassadors during the annual Art Blooms exhibit.