Garden to host larger-than-life glass artwork by Seattle-based artist Jason Gamrath

BELMONT, N.C. – Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is thrilled to celebrate its 20th anniversary with the announcement of an awe-inspiring, larger-than-life botanical glass exhibit, Grandiflora: Gamrath Glass at the Garden, opening Fri., May 24. Guests will be mesmerized this summer by dozens of vibrant sculptures by Seattle-based artist Jason Gamrath including towering 10-foot orchids, vivid pitcher plants, energetic Venus flytraps and more.

The immensity of Gramrath’s botanical works captivates audiences and calls attention to the beauty of normally tiny details within the natural world. A Seattle area native, Gramrath began studying glass sculpting at the young age of 15 and has worked and trained with many renowned artists including Preston Singletary, Karen Willenbrink, Richard Royal, Ross Richmond and Sally Prasch. His work is collected internationally and the pieces on display at the Garden will also be available for purchase.

“The purpose of creating this series on a macro scale is to bring to light the beauty that exists within the micro scale of nature,” said Gamrath. “It is my hope that when people admire my large-scale renderings, they become curious and captivated by the hints of realism I incorporate into my designs. I encourage people to attempt to observe with the same eyes through which I humbly and graciously experience our natural world.”

The Garden, which opened the doors of its Visitor Pavilion in 1999, celebrates 20 years of horticultural beauty just 30 minutes from uptown Charlotte in Belmont, NC. This summer the gardens will feature big, bold, beautiful plants with large flowers and leaves to complement Gamrath’s sculptures. In addition guests can explore the Butterfly Bungalow during the day and enjoy a beverage and live music in the Beer Garden on select evenings.

The Garden is grateful for the following supporters who helped make Grandiflora: Gamrath Glass at the Garden possible: May and Carroll Barger, Mr. and Mrs. James J. Bissell, Anne and Tom Efird, Gaston Community Foundation, Pamela K. Warlick and Pat and Bill Williamson.

Guests can experience this unique exhibit daily May 24 through Sept. 29 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and also in the evenings Thursdays through Sundays May 30 through Sept. 29 from 6 to 10 p.m. with the exception of June 16 when the Garden will be closed for a private event. Admission to the Garden and exhibit is $14.95 per adult, $12.95 per senior ages 60 and up, $7.95 per child ages 2 through 12, free for children under age 2, and free for Garden Members from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. while Members receive a 30% discount on admission for evenings from 6 to 10 p.m. Tickets will be available at the door for daytime admission and both online and at the door for evening admission. For more information, call (704) 825-4490 or visit www.DSBG.org.

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