We had private tour at the Art Gallery.
First, we visited the Serenity exhibit that featured art depicting aspects of Asian gardens. We learned that the concept of having a garden was first developed for a few "scholars," or high ranking civil servants in China. Instead of focusing on flowers and plants, these gardens incorporated high and low ground, flowing water, and caves. Plants were, of course, featured as well with each having a specific meaning or connotation. Gardens were a mega status symbol at that time and the ornate naturally etched "scholars' rocks" featured in the very best Chinese gardens were extremely rare and expensive and were themselves the subject of portraits.
Next we visited the Flora exhibit which focused on flowers and plants with art employing a wide variety of different styles. One section of the exhibit depicted the changing seasons while another showed how different techniques have been used over the years in still life. Our guide reminded us that the purpose if still life was to remind us that life is fleeting and we should enjoy it while we can.
Next we went "down the garden path" to see a more modern exhibit featuring a split image seventeen minute video loop showing a boulevard in Berlin at dawn and at twilight simultaneously, some interestingly adjusted photographs showing how we alter public and private spaces, and a piece featuring furniture and wallpapers alongside a series of photographs that explored themes of environmental destruction and reality versus artificiality.
The old mansion and other exhibits were ideal for browsing.
Also, we had time to appreciate the Emily Carr: On the Edge of Nowhere exhibit.
Overall an interesting and enjoyable day trip!
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