A testimonial from

the Director of Exhibitions

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden:

“The exhibit, Incanto: An Oasis of Lyrical Sculpture, was a true triumph for the artist, the Garden and LGBG team, and greater Richmond community. It is rare to work intimately with an artist from conception to implementation, and LGBG had that experience as co­ producers of the exhibit. Kate's art was a natural fit for our Garden. Her sculptures are contemporary in nature and also acknowledge elements of the past. At the very center of Kate's designs is the significance and power of the natural world and its impact on humanity. While large scale and grand, the sculptures never created a feeling of domination. They truly became a part of the natural displays, and that's a result of Kate's thoughtfulness and sensitivity to the environment and its surroundings. Our horticulture team also had the opportunity to collaborate with Kate and curate their displays to support and complement the aesthetic of her art.

The mission of LGBG is centered on connecting people to plants by inspiring communities to explore and conserve nature. While nature is at the forefront, community is the focal point of what we do as a Garden.Incanto became a destination for the people. The compelling art attracted new audiences, initiated new partnerships with arts and culture organizations, and inspired new programs and classes. The Garden experienced significant growth in attendance numbers and memberships. The lighting elements of the sculptures gave the Garden the opportunity to pilot extended hours and nightly programming, all of which proved to be successes. Incanto left the Garden in a stronger position in more ways than one.

Incanto highlighted our collections, stimulated attendance, drove memberships, and cultivated community connections. While the art has left the grounds, its spirit lives on in our hearts.I whole heartedly support this exhibition in its next endeavor and trust other institutions and the people who experience the art ofIncanto will benefit from it.”

Beth Anne Booth

Director of Exhibitions

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

Richmond, Virginia