NYBG Orchid Show

The interesting thing about “style” is that it has almost nothing to do with beauty. Conversely, “beauty” has nothing to do with style.
This magnificent orchid exhibit at the New York Botanical Gardens is this weeks Style post, but it’s really about beauty.
I learned about this several months long exhibit, which runs until some time in May, from the @secret_nyc account on Instagram. This account features great and cool happenings in the New York area, often on the earlier side of the public knowing about them. I have never been to the NYBG and have always wanted to go. I bought three tickets on the spot, thinking I could get at least 2 of my kids to join me. My oldest and youngest, both avid nature lovers, were excited to come. This special exhibit, by artist Jeff Leatham, features a kaleidoscopic approach to the magical world of orchids. Did you know there are over 300 species of this stunning flower? The exhibit, housed inside the gorgeous and large conservatory seen here, blew us away. Walking through a re-creation of several types of rain forests, we were delighted to have this robust, vibrant brush with nature during the bleaker winter season. Coming in from the cold to enter this magical wonderland of flowers, we felt as if we’d stepped into a portal of beauty.
Nature teaches me innumerable lessons. She comforts me when I need a soothing reminder of the bigger, wiser picture or an invigorating shot of perspective. Being amongst such aliveness and beauty as a war rages on in the Ukraine reinforced the great paradox of life; it will always contain joy and suffering all the time. There is beauty in accepting this because it’s true. In the case of war and times of devastation, a bright, perfect orchid reminds me that things will be stripped away then grow back. My opinion on when and how are irrelevant. Mother Nature answers to no one, and this is how she teaches trust and patience, two of the most beautiful qualities of the heart.

I really suggest taking in this wonderful exhibit if you’re in the New York area. My kids and I had a truly memorable experience, and can’t wait to revisit NYBG again.