Client: Denver Botanic Gardens

Overview

Leaf is a 15′ long stainless-steel leaf containing over 250 silhouettes of plants from the Denver Botanic Gardens’ own Kathryn Kalmbach Herbarium of Vascular Plants collection – highlighting the collection and preservation of thousands of plant samples from Colorado and the greater Southern Rocky Mountain Region.

Goals

The Freyer – Newman Center, at the Denver Botanic Gardens, is a physical manifestation of the Gardens’ celebration of the fusion of science and art. The Gardens’ holdings are unique because horticulture, plant conservation and preservation, mycology and art unite to document human relationships with these elements and the larger environment. Housing each of these programmatic elements in a single facility makes these assets more accessible to the public.

'Leaf' helps create a distinct connection to the natural world and demonstrates the connection between the micro and macro, as well as honors human relationships to the natural environment. At the same time, it enhances the experience of those that use and enjoy the Freyer – Newman Center, engaging multiple senses, and serving as a landmark helping to guide visitors into the new center.