Experience the Wonder of Vivid Creatures at The Morton Arboretum
Image Credit Heather BeGaetz and Fez BeGaetz
This spring, The Morton Arboretum, in Lisle, invites visitors to experience Vivid Creatures: Colorful Sculptures as Tall as Trees, a whimsical outdoor exhibition debuting on May 17. Created by Portland-based artists Heather BeGaetz and Fez BeGaetz, the display features five, larger-than-life animal sculptures—ranging from eight to 23 feet tall—celebrating the vital role of wildlife in Illinois’ ecosystem.
The vibrant collection includes a white-tailed deer, dragonfly, sandhill crane, fox squirrel and brittle button snail, each carefully placed within the arboretum’s lush landscape. “Each piece highlights the interconnected roles of animals, plants and people in supporting balanced ecosystems,” says Amy Scott, head of exhibitions.
“Our works are invitations to take sanctuary in wonder, and to be gathering places for people to enter worlds of imagination,” says Heather BeGaetz.
Four sculptures will be set along paved paths that comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act, while the rainbow-colored snail will overlook Interstate 88. “Ensuring that this vibrant exhibition is physically accessible to all visitors is a top priority for us,” adds Scott.
Cost: The exhibition is included with general admission. Location: The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte. 53, Lisle. For more information, visit MortonArb.org.
