Many people would say their garden is an expression of themselves, a way to communicate who they are. Gardens improve physical and mental health, promote social relationships, and are sites of connection. This exhibition explores just that - gardens as sites of connection.

Floral Ecologies celebrates the therapeutic nature of flowers and a garden’s potential to foster social engagement. Garden picnics were all the rage in the late 1800s through to the early 1900s. At times, stepping out of the house and into the garden meant stepping away from the realities of domestic life. A place for social gatherings and informal games, picnics were significant events amongst a community or even a regular Sunday occasion for family members. Prior to car ownership and the introduction of televisions, gardens were a hub of entertainment, a setting that required only a step outside the backdoor.

The introduction of early domestic photography documents a progression from studios to intimate outdoor garden settings. As cameras became more accessible to everyday people, photography became less formal and more self-expressive. Informal moments were captured, providing us in the 21st century a glimpse into the past. While domestic garden landscapes today have changed, the therapeutic nature of flowers remains.

Floral Ecologies incorporates local archival imagery, Museum objects, and artworks from the Forrester Gallery’s collection.