Nature will unfold in more ways than one this spring as Tulsa Botanic Garden hosts the Oklahoma debut of FLORIGAMI IN THE GARDEN, an exhibition of monumental sculptures by Santa Fe artists Jennifer and Kevin Box. The exhibit opens Sunday, March 2, 2025, when the Garden reopens for the year.
FLORIGAMI IN THE GARDEN showcases 20 installations of museum-quality metal sculptures inspired by origami, the centuries-old Japanese art of folding paper. The larger-than-life sculptures of blooming flowers, birds, grazing deer, galloping ponies, and other flora and fauna themes will be exhibited throughout the five formal gardens at Tulsa Botanic Garden. The Oklahoma debut will also premier three new pieces by Box, including a 17ft. tall kinetic sculpture of colorful butterflies that will “float” above floral displays.
Kevin Box grew up in Bartlesville, OK and graduated from the School of Visual Arts in New York City. His work has received numerous awards and is held in prominent collections worldwide. In 2004, he was the youngest member ever elected to the National Sculptors' Guild.
“When I was growing up, my parents used to ask the question ‘Is he a big fish in a small pond here in Oklahoma, or does he have what it takes to be a real artist on the big stage?’ They sent me to New York City to find out and I can say that 30 years later, I am honored and privileged to have made it as a successful artist from Oklahoma,” said Kevin Box.
FLORIGAMI IN THE GARDEN features Box’s own compositions as well as collaborations with his wife, Jennifer, and world-renowned origami artists Te Jui Fu, Beth Johnson, Michael G. LaFosse and Robert J. Lang.
“We’re thrilled to bring FLORIGAMI IN THE GARDEN to our state and look forward to having everyone experience and be inspired by this nationally acclaimed art set within our beautiful horticultural displays,” said Chuck Lamson, Garden President and CEO, “With Kevin’s Oklahoma connection and that he’s premiering three new pieces in Tulsa, it makes it that more special.”
“Botanical gardens are the most beautiful outdoor museums and they are the perfect setting to experience art and nature together,” continues Box. “It is wonderful to see Tulsa now has one of its own to enchant and inspire its community.”
The exhibit includes interpretive information and cast metal examples of origami pieces folded and unfolded. An audio tour is also available for guests to dial into and listen to the artists speak about the work as well as a scavenger hunt sheet.
FLORIGAMI IN THE GARDEN will be at Tulsa Botanic Garden through September 21, 2025. Admission to the Garden will include the exhibit and is free for Garden members. Admission for non-members during the exhibit will be $15 for ages 16 and up and $10 for children 3 to 15 years. Ages 2 and younger are free. Discounted admission, for families receiving WIC or SNAP benefits and Oklahoma Foster Parents, is available, see website for details.
Garden Hours: Opening for 2025 on Sunday, March 2. Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Starting in April, the Garden will be open every Thursday evening until 8 p.m. through Oct. 30. See below for other events happening during spring and summer at the Garden.
Botanical gardens are the most beautiful outdoor museums and they are the perfect setting to experience art and nature together.