Dear Readers,
This May we have three articles on very different places: a historic theater in the heart of Appalachia in Abingdon, Virginia; the sophisticated gardens of Wave Hill in the Bronx; and the unique art exhibits at Miami Beach's Botanical Garden.
Linda Cabasin points out in her article on Wave Hill that "green spaces are precious in cities" and that the gardens at Wave Hill "refresh the spirit and encourage reconnection with nature." The mission statement of the Miami Beach Botanical Garden says that the Miami Beach Botanical Garden is a community resource that refreshes, inspires and engages its visitors.
These gardens are open to the public and offer educational programs, opportunities for the community and artists' exhibits. They are oases in the middle of, or very close to, miles of concrete sidewalks and tall buildings. Gardens offer drastic and immediate change from inner city life and their power is potent.
In a 2019 opinion piece in The New York Times, the writer quoted the renowned author and neurologist Oliver Sacks who wrote, "I cannot say exactly how nature exerts its calming and organizing effects on our brains, but I have seen in my patients the restorative and healing powers of nature and gardens.....In many cases, gardens and nature are more powerful than any medication."
Another great American treasure can be found in Appalachia: the Barter Theatre. The idea of "trading of ham for Hamlet came about when the audience could buy tickets with their produce. Barter Theatre was, and still is, a well-known theatre not only regionally but also with up and coming, as well as established, theater professionals. This playhouse is an economic and cultural cornerstone of the community, the town of Abingdon, and the region.
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Thank you for reading!
Victoria Larson
