The Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens Art and Bloom Festival, May 17 to 19, is more than just another Valley event; it is an experience.
As you stroll through the gardens, not only will you come across unique works of art created by some of the best artists and artisans in B.C., you will also discover the awe-inspiring handiwork of Mother Nature.
With more than 3,000 rhododendrons and thousands of Indigenous plants, the gardens themselves are a work of art covering nearly 25 acres of what was once a Christmas tree farm. Working with nature, owner Bryan Zimmerman has carefully crafted a setting unlike any other of British Columbia鈥檚 spectacular botanical gardens.
鈥淢y objective is to work with the land as I find it,鈥� says Zimmerman. 鈥淚 try not to disturb the natural growth and attempt to create an environment that looks as if it was always there.鈥� Zimmerman takes this to heart. For example, to minimize the impact of vehicles, he hand-spreads tons of bark mulch each year on the pathways.
While the gardens are indeed spectacular, they are certainly enhanced by the art that you will find spread throughout the gardens. From colourful paintings in a variety of mediums, to hand-worked glass that sparkles like the dew, these works are a visual treat and blend in so perfectly with the blossoms that are the highlight of the gardens at this time of the year.
A walk along the pathways or a stroll over the lawns reveals a cornucopia of talent that is second to none. Works in stone, wood, and clay are a natural fit for the gardens. Photographs capture the essence of the land and nature鈥檚 colourful palette is transformed into paintings that cover a broad spectrum of subjects.
Visitors will also find some unique works that are perfect for displaying in a garden setting. There are unique garden sculptures and other ornaments that will give your home garden a personal touch. In addition, there are also fantastic displays of pottery and exquisite pieces of jewelry that would even make Mother Nature envious.
To further enhance the experience, you will find musicians playing at several locations throughout the gardens. Each one of them performs in their unique style with a sound that seems to blend with nature. This year鈥檚 featured musicians are some Valley favourites such as Luke Blu Guthrie, Bruce & Judy Wing, Anela Kahiamoe, David Somers and Canuck Country.
No festival would be complete without food vendors to help keep the energy flowing. From wood-fired pizza to healthy Dragon Bowls and of course festival favourites such as hot dogs, burgers and pretzels.
Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens is located a 15-minute drive north of Courtenay and just off Highway 19a. The Art and Bloom Festival takes place May 17 to 19 and is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday. Regular special event admission applied. Only cash is accepted at the gate.
For more information about the gardens and the festival, visit the website
