In a year of anniversaries, what better way to celebrate the Garden’s 50th than with an encore exhibition of artist Niki de Saint Phalle’s monumental sculptures, which debuted at the Garden 20 years ago this spring?
The French sculptor, who died in 2002, is known as one of the first female artists to create massive sculptures, particularly her “Nanas” — lighthearted, whimsical and colorful large-scale figures of women, animals and monsters.
This year’s exhibition, presented May 9 – Sept. 6, features 41 works in what is believed to be the largest showing of the artist’s work ever presented in North America. Most are on loan from the Niki Charitable Art Foundation, with others from private collections.
“Those who saw the 2006 exhibit are going to relish experiencing these fun, joyful sculptures again, and those who didn’t are in for a major treat!” said Garden President & CEO Mary Pat Matheson.
The often-playful, extremely colorful sculptures range from Grand Step Totem, weighing 2,000 pounds, and Large Yelling Man, towering 16.5 feet, to small wall-hung reliefs measuring 2 feet square.
The most iconic of the pieces — displayed throughout the Garden, as well as in the Conservatory, Orchid Center and Gardenhouse Gallery — is The Three Graces, frolicking in the Skyline Garden pond.
In addition, an interpretive exhibition about the artist and her work is on display near the entrance to the Orchid Display House.