I have loved Chinese garden ever since it has opened over 20 years ago. I have been a member for almost as long. I love visiting it especially in the winter, as there are a number of plants that are blooming and are surprisingly fragrant. The sweet smells can lift the spirit during the cold, dark months. The rock pathways covered in moss intrigue with various designs, the architecture and passageways allow for "losing yourself in" as if you were in an Escher's painting, and flowers and trees help beat the winter doldrums. In October and November I participated in an exhibit Mums and More with Oregon Botanical Artists. I have selected a few plants from the garden and was even generously given some cuttings to make my illustrations. I illustrated two different magnolias in their winter attire, a brozny chrysanthemum and a pomegranate branch. I had an opportunity to attend the opening reception, when the garden was beautifully lit up at night revealing interesting shapes and shadows. My favorite is always doing a public demonstration as it's a fun opportunity to talk about my art process and meet interesting people. The show is down now, but I am due for another visit for a stroll and a hot cup of tea at the Tea House.
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