Emily Dickinson's Garden at the NYBG

I had a chance to see Emily Dickinson’s Garden: The Poetry of Flowers Spring Exhibition at The New York Botanical Garden (April 30–June 13, 2010).

Although the weather was quite inclement, it did not stop me from walking beyond the conservatory into the outdoor gardens.  There were more than 30 poetry boards that dotted the landscape, featuring many of the plants that inspired her work. It was quite moving to see her poetic words spring to life against a visual canvass of lush spring blooms in abundant clusters within the planting beds. 

Moving inside, the transformation of Enid A. Haupt Conservatory into an extraordinary re-creation of poet Emily Dickinson's mid-19th century New England Flower Garden in Amherst, Massachusetts was quite stunning.

There was a dazzling display of her favorite plants, many of which were mentioned in her poems.  It was a fascinating journey through glorious patches of day lilies, tulips, lilies, and even a charming woodland path that connected a replica of her house Homestead, to her brother's home the Evergreens.  There were also examples of her vegetable gardens, which were displayed amongst the flowers.

Another exhibition bonus was the recreation of the view from her bedroom, and another from her desk, where she would have undoubtedly seen the abundance of colorful flowers in her garden. It was noted that Emily Dickinson was an amateur botanist, and documented, pressed, and collected more than 420 flower specimens.

The exhibition, which extended into other NYBG buildings, also included several objects such as books, manuscripts, and photographs to tell the story of Emily Dickinson’s life.  It was certainly a fantastic way to celebrate spring, and appreciate the salute to someone who truly celebrated her garden.