Sara Abbas and Barbara Bolen of The Northport Native Gardening Initiative providing an informative and inspiring gardening program at The Firefly Artists
July was National Pollinator Month
In honor of National Pollinator Month, we had this really cool show: a two gallery, bi-county exhibition called “Cross Pollination.” It was run in partnership between us at The Firefly, and Hive Market & Gallery. Grateful thanks to Pat of Sunflower Galleries for serving as our judge.
As something of a closing event, we were thrilled to host a program focused on actual gardens and pollinators. The topic leant itself easily to a metaphor regarding how our yards are like canvases, and how the plants we choose to garden with are like paints. Sara Abbas and Barbara Bolen of the Northport Native Garden Initiative crafted the presentation. Dan Tyska brought some live samples.
We talked about plants. We talked about pollinators. We considered color, height, layering, and structure. Ecological considerations — which bring beauty in their own right — were never far from mind.
Education, Inspiration.
In addition to providing all sorts education, connection and volunteer work, Sara has transformed her passion for native plants into a consulting practice called Sara Mairead Landscape Design. A few clients were there, as well as an artist who has used gardens Sara designed as inspiration for her work. One gentleman was particularly delighted to say that he agreed this was art, and that it includes the increasing numbers of butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators he’s enjoyed since “painting” his yard with native flora.
Whether you were new to native gardening or give it your best to catch the good folks of NNGI whenever you can, the event was enlightening. I learned a lot, and got some great ideas!
Learn More. Find Plants.
The Northport Native Gardening Initiative website has lots of great information and opportunities to get involved.
Their Facebook Group is also really great.
Want some plants? On 9/13 you may catch them at the Northport Farmer’s Market from 8:30-12pm!
