Ann Norton’s Vision: Blending Art, Nature, and Community in West Palm Beach

Ann Norton was a visionary ahead of her time. Her founding vision for Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens centered on conservation, culture, and community. She understood that West Palm Beach was poised for growth and transformation, and she had the foresight to preserve and share her home, studio, art and gardens as a sanctuary for visitors. In creating a sustainable habitat within the city, she instinctively embraced what we now call reconciliation ecology — the practice of creating spaces within urban environments that establish and encourage biodiversity. For Ann, the connection between art and nature was essential — she believed that both could inspire and deepen our understanding of the natural world around us.

The Art & Nature Series continues that legacy, offering inspiring, hands-on programs that reconnect us with art, the natural world and its wildlife, one small step or bold leap at a time. From installing a rain barrel in your own backyard to planting native trees that support birds, butterflies, and other wildlife, this series empowers individuals to make a difference. This season, events will include native plant giveaways, the creation of a native demonstration garden at ANSG, and workshops that bring nature indoors — including a floral design class led by an expert, teaching you how to create beautiful, natural arrangements using materials from your own yard.

Reservations are required for all programs. Please call 561-832-5328 to sign up today!

Ann’s Great Wildflower Giveaway

Saturday, October 25, 2025 | 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Details: Free native plants available while supplies last. Reservations required. Free to members; non-member admissions apply. In honor of this special event, members are invited to bring a complimentary guest, and non-members enjoy two-for-the-price-of-one admission.

Celebrate Florida’s Native Plant Month and Ann Norton’s vision of art and nature at this special Community Day presented in partnership with Gentlemen of the Garden. Guests will receive free native plants and seeds to take home, helping create vital habitats for butterflies, pollinators, and wildlife.

Enjoy live watercolor and sketch demonstrations by Carl Stoveland and the Urban Sketchers as they capture the beauty of wildflowers throughout the gardens, reflecting Ann’s vision that her garden be an “ensemble of arts and nature – a combination of monumental sculptures with trees, bushes, water, and wildflowers of Florida. Ann’s Great Wildflower Giveaway continues Ann’s legacy of conservation and her belief that we all have a vital role to play in keeping our natural world natural. Every native plant placed in a pot, patch, or yard helps reclaim safe habitat for pollinators and strengthens the harmony between people and nature.

Floral Forms: Celebrating Art, Nature & the Season with Award-Winning Floral Designer Sarah Benitz

Saturday, December 6, 2025 – 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Details: Reservations Required, $35 ANSG member and $50 non-member

Celebrate the season in full bloom with this festive, hands-on holiday workshop led by Sarah Benitz, award-winning floral designer and recipient of the Garden Club of America Best in Show in Floral Design. Drawing inspiration from nature and using seasonal materials gathered from the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, Sarah will guide guests in creating beautiful floral arrangements and table wreaths—perfect for your holiday table or entryway.

 All materials are provided, and participants will leave with their own unique creations and the skills to design more throughout the season. Whether you’re a seasoned floral enthusiast or simply looking for a joyful, creative afternoon, this workshop offers an inspiring blend of artistry, nature, and holiday spirit.

Wildflowers, Butterflies & Pollinators: Small Projects = Big Impact
Sunday, January 18, 2026
2:00 – 4:00 PM

Create your own pollinator paradise—one pot at a time. This hands-on workshop explores the power of small spaces to support big biodiversity. Whether you have a yard, porch, patio, or balcony, a single Wildflower & Pollinator Pot can attract bees, butterflies, and other vital pollinators while adding color and life to your surroundings.

You’ll plant your own container using native plants and wildflower seeds, creating a mini sanctuary that provides nectar, shelter, and breeding grounds for essential pollinators. The afternoon includes short, engaging talks from local experts on growing from seed, building mini meadows, and choosing the best native plants. A tour of Ann Norton’s thriving Pollinator Garden rounds out the day.

All materials—soil, plants, and seeds—will be provided. Please bring a medium-sized container (10–14 inches in diameter) with drainage.

Pollinator pots are a simple and beautiful way to make a lasting ecological impact. Join us and get growing!