Art and nature collide at Morton Arboretum in new exhibition

Morton Arboretum is launching its next large-scale sculpture exhibition on May 26, 2023. Created by Polish American artist Olga Ziemska, "Of the Earth" will feature five exclusive new pieces crafted from reclaimed tree branches and other natural materials found within the Arboretum's sprawling 1,700 acres.

Ziemska, whose name in Polish means "of the earth," felt a strong connection to the tree-filled landscapes at Morton Arboretum, evoking memories of her ancestral home in Poland. The Cleveland-based artist aims to emphasize the interconnectedness of all life, stating, "Everything in life is derived from the same basic elements that form everything in nature, including ourselves. There is no separation."

The five unique pieces, ranging from five to 45 feet, combine natural elements with steel and concrete, creating a striking juxtaposition between nature and man-made materials. Among the showcased works are "Stillness in Motion: The Matka series," a six-foot-tall mother figure, and "Strata," a 45-foot-long sculpture of a woman in repose.

Ziemska, a first-generation child of Polish immigrants, has been challenging the norms of the male-dominated art world for over 20 years. Her work has been displayed in various countries around the globe, including Poland, Taiwan, Italy, South Korea, and Mexico. This exhibition marks the largest public showcase of her career to date.

According to Preston Bautista, Ph.D., the Arboretum's vice president of learning and engagement, the pairing of art and nature at Morton Arboretum has been a compelling experience for first-time and frequent visitors. "Of the Earth" signifies Morton Arboretum's continued commitment to offering one-of-a-kind exhibitions that inspire visitors to explore the beauty of nature.

The exhibition will run until the spring of 2025. For more information, please visit the Arboretum's website. Opening hours for "Of the Earth" on May 26 are 7 a.m. for members and noon for non-members.