The team at Lauritzen Gardens approached Hot Shop’s artist, Paula Wallace, with just that question. “What if we created a fantastical forest…could we find a team of artists to work with?” Working together at the Hot Shops is second nature, so Paula’s answer was an immediate, resounding, YES!
Thirteen Hot Shops artists, in collaboration with the Lauritzen staff, worked for the past two months on making this exhibit come to life. The world is full of stories about fantastic beings, imaginary creatures, and magical events. This enchanting exhibit, set in the garden’s plant kingdom, brings to life the legends and lore from around the globe and celebrates the links between the natural and mythical worlds. From dragons to mermaids and sea serpents to giants, you’ll meet a menagerie of extraordinary creatures, walk through their otherworldly habitats, and discover the incredible tales behind them all.
The exhibit features original works from:
“We are grateful to the artists that create magic year-round at the Hot Shops Art Center for sharing their creativity with the community through this exhibit. Plants and art have long been inspiring and magical to many cultures. By combining our talents, we have created a place of imagination and wonder for all to explore.” – John Newman, executive director, Lauritzen Gardens
This indoor exhibit is included with paid garden admission ($10 adults, $5 children 3-12) and is free for garden members. Hot Shops members receive a 50% discount on admission to the show. Email Kim for a discount code. Membership card must be presented at check-in. To find out more about the exhibit, or reserve timed tickets, visit lauritzengardens.org.
There are many amazing creatures living in Lauritzen Gardens during the Fantastical Folklore exhibit. Many of them came to life at the Hot Shops. We invite you to bring your kids to create their own fantastical creature! Stop at the Hot Shops Art Center’s ‘Creature Creation Station‘ to pick up and design your own cardboard creature. Use objects provided at the Station, or take it home and decorate using found objects, art supplies or things you have at home. Then, bring your character along on your next visit to the Lauritzen Gardens or to the Hot Shops on your own fantastical adventure!
