NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Media Contact: Allison Marchese 518-755-6061

August 20, 2008--Stockbridge, Massachusetts. Recent aviators have reported larger than normal sized birds, and butterflies hovering in the vicinity of the Berkshire Botanical Garden. No need to worry, it's simply the fascinating sculpture of Susan Carty Treat. Visitors to the Garden will have an opportunity to stand side by side with a 3 foot humming bird, a 14 inch ladybug, 4 foot luna moth, as well as oversized robin and worm, rabbit, butterfly and a pair of turkeys. The exhibition opens on Labor Day weekend and closes Oct. 13.

A native of Berkshire County, Massachusetts and a florist by trade, Treat says she's been a longtime admirer of nature which is reflected in her art. Susan's sculptures are mixed media assemblage using iron and metal armature, layered wire mesh which is treated and painted. Each is made with accurate muscular detail, offering an animated quality which comes directly from many hours devoted to live observation and library study. Her more recent work, created with wire netting of hexagonal mesh and beautiful soft color, has allowed her to create sculptures that are strong and solid but look delicate and lacy. On display at the Berkshire Botanical Garden will be a collection of 'birds, butterflies and best friends' an exhibition created specially for the Garden space and is in sync with this year's theme. Look for the pieces along garden paths and intertwined in the Vegetable and Children's gardens, perfectly at home in these nurturing environments.

"We love the four foot Butterfly and the enormous birds. They're fun and really make the Garden come alive," says Executive Director, John Parker. "These works are a wonderful addition to our Nurturing Garden theme and will work nicely with the birdhouses and contemporary art installed earlier this season which remain on display into mid September."

For more information about the Berkshire Botanical Garden exhibitions, events and educational programs, please call 413-298-3926.