By Jenny Zeller
In honor of our 90th anniversary, we will celebrate throughout the year with fun programs and events, but one of the GIANT highlights is sure to be a new Sited@Bernheim project entitled Forest Giants in a Giant Forest by renowned Danish artist Thomas Dambo. Dambo works with his crew to create larger than life sculptures from recycled and repurposed materials otherwise slated to be thrown away. These whimsical creations demonstrate that trash and waste can be valuable resources, in hopes of inspiring people to not only recycle, but also to think more deeply about the impact that our lifestyle choices have on the planet.
These Forest Giants should remain in place for 3-5 years, and will provide fun photo opportunities, programs, and more. For a short time, you will have the opportunity to come out and watch these Giants grow! Come out to Bernheim between February 20 and March 15 to see him and his crew work. Working hours and locations may vary. Be sure to follow us on Facebook or call the Visitor Center at (502) 215-7159 to confirm his schedule. Stop by the Visitor Center when you arrive for any additional information. Volunteers will be on hand to answer questions. Be sure to take lots of photos and share them with us @bernheimforest and use #BernheimForestGiants.
Dambo is experiencing a tremendous moment in his career with offers from around the world and we are very lucky to work with him at Bernheim! Recent projects have taken him to South Korea, Australia and Mexico City, in addition to the Morton Arboretum in Chicago.
The Forest Giants have found a great home in Bernheim because giant protected forest blocks like Bernheim are extremely important in protecting clean water and air as well as biodiversity. This 16,000+ acre forest allows thousands of plant and wildlife species flourish while also providing the Greater Louisville Region with clean air, clean water and a place of unmatched beauty where people can connect with nature. 90 years ago, when I. W. Bernheim’s purchased 13,300 acres of land as a gift to the people of Kentucky, part of his vision was that this land would be “a place for the people of Kentucky to further their love of the beautiful in nature and in art.”
We hope to see you over the coming weeks as we watch our Forest Giants in a Giant Forest grow. It will be fe fi fo fun!
Want to become a sponsor? We have a sponsorship level for all budgets. Contact Alicia Feldman, Development Manager, via email or by calling (502) 215-7139 to learn more.
