Location: Salem, MA (about 30 mins northeast of Boston, MA)
Summary: Artists from the Salem, MA, area showed off their talents at the 2025 Salem Arts Festival.
Welcome to part 2 of my blog post about the Salem Arts Festival!
One of the more interesting parts of the Salem Arts Fair was the art from local artists that were on display in the Old Town Hall. Yes, that town hall. The Old Town Hall in Salem, MA, is the very same building that was used in the filming of Hocus Pocus.
Yes, this very same building was the home to the works of dozens of artists in the Salem, MA area.
Everything from paintings and sculptures to photographs were on display during the festival. These are some of my favorites from the event!
After viewing the art in the Town Hall, I was surprised to see a group of acrobats setting up on the lawn of the visitor’s center! The acrobats entertained the crowd with gravity defying tricks!
During a break in the action, one of the performers picked a spectator from the crowd to challenge him to a contest. Although it was pretty obvious her “random choice” was not very random at all, it was still fun to watch, especially when she acted like she thought everyone was clapping for her and not him! It was very cute and entertaining! In fact, watching the spectators’ reactions were just as fun to watch as the young juggler was to watch.
What a way to end the festival! The Salem Arts Festival definitely didn’t disappoint, although I do wish the weather was nicer, particularly since it was in June! But, that’s New England for you!
Summary: Artists from all over the Salem (MA) area showed off their artistic abilities at the 17th annual Salem Arts Festival.
As summer is winding down, sadly, it’s true, I thought it was the perfect time to post photos from the annual Salem Arts Festival in June of this year! Ok, I should have posted them earlier. But, it’s been a busy summer! And I plan to show off more photos from my busy summer soon!
The 17th annual arts festival featured art and artists from all over the Salem, MA, area.
The theme for this year’s festival was Hissstory. As the sign below states, the hissstory project repurposed banners from previous events in the city. These repurposed parts were used to form a very long snake! Citizens of Salem were encouraged to create their segments of the snake which was displayed on Front St; the staging area for the performers. Recycling, or repurposing, at its finest.
The festival ran from June 6th to 8th. But, because of the rainy weather, I only attended on the 8th of June.
Since there was so much art and entertainment at the festival, I have decided to post this blog post in 2 parts. This post will include the popular “Mural Slam” as well as some of the dancers and musicians at the festival.
Without a doubt, the main event of the festival is the mural slam. Twelve artists painted uniquely creative works of art.
The murals weren’t finished until later in the day after I left. So, I stopped by the next weekend to photograph them when they were done. Plus it’s fun seeing how some of the murals evolved. At least it’s fun for me. Maybe I need to get out more.
Paige Doyle-Elwell
Howie Green
Colomba Klenner
Jess “Pickles” Clark
Max Pro
Daphne Powers
Bruce Orr
Naijah Nine
Caoin O’Durgy
Sarah Egan
Jennifer Wackerle
Bobbie Smith
There were additional murals and other works of art that were not part of the mural slam. The elephant was made by Polyvios Christoforos for the 2018 Salem, MA, mural slam. Bonus points if you can name all of the 4 buildings in the painting with the homes.
But, the art wasn’t just the murals and in the old town hall. There were also musicians and dancers. Matt Savage Groove Experiment kicked off the festivities on the second day of the festival. Matt is the keyboard player and composer for the band.
One of the more interesting and creative parts of the festival were the dancers. There were tap dancers.
But, the most interesting dancers were the interpretative dancers.
I hope you join me in part 2 of my blog post from this event which I will post soon!
Location: Kate Gould Park, Main St, Chatham, MA (1.5 hours southeast of Boston, MA)
Hours: Park is open sunrise to sunset
Cost: Free
Parking: there is metered parking as well as parking lots on Main St.
Dog Friendly: Yes
Cape Cod, or better known simply as the “Cape”, has been known for shark sightings. But, this is getting ridiculous.
But, it’s not just sharks that are in Kate Gould Park. A variety of artistically decorated whales are also in the park!
The “Art In The Park” event which began in 2013, displays dozens of whales and sharks (over 30 after I lost count). Each whale and shark has a unique design and many of the designs incorporate something relevant to the Cape Cod area such as beaches, lighthouses and traffic. Sailboat traffic that is.
But, some of the best artwork were the sharks and whales that were made of unusual materials or had creative designs.
One of my biggest pet peeves regarding photography is photographing people or other obstructions in my photos. But, this exhibit is so popular it was almost impossible to get photographs without people in them. But, I did my best.
Some of the sharks and whales had artwork on both sides of them. So, make sure to look at both sides of them if you do check them out!
Although it’s hard to pick a favorite, these were some more of my favorites.
As the saying for the event goes, “the art is in the park and the oars are in the stores.” Artists made works of art on oars as part of the artistic event. I didn’t have much time to see all of the oars associated with the event. But, I did see this one in a window of a realtor.
Although it may be a long drive (Chatham is located along the coast at the “elbow” of the Cape Cod region), it’s definitely worth the drive! But, don’t wait too long. The art in the park exhibit will only be around another week!
Location: Revere Beach, Revere Beach Blvd, Revere, MA (20 minutes northeast of Boston, MA)
Cost: Free
Parking: parking is limited during the festival as the city shuts down the main roadway (Revere Beach Blvd). Visitors are encourage to take public or rideshare services. I arrived early so I was able to find a spot just before the road closures began.
Dog Friendly: Yes
Summary: 10 sand sculptors showed off their talent at the 21st International Sand Sculpture Festival
The sculptors are coming to the Revere Beach Sand Sculpture Festival. Well, they actually already arrived, But, what a fitting place to celebrate this year’s sand sculpture festival.
The first public beach in America hosted 10 sand sculptors from all over the world.
Since it is the 250th anniversary of the beginning of the American Revolution, there were sand sculptures representing the revolution. Fittingly, one of the sculptures, which was lighted up for my early morning visit.
There was also a sculpture of the minutemen from that era.
There were some familiar names at the event. Many of the sand sculptors who participated in the event in previous years competed again this year. And, some of the sculptors who participated in the 2025 Hampton Beach International Sand Sculpture Festival participated in this year’s sand sculpture festival in Revere.
One of those familiar names and faces in this year’s competition was Abe Waterman. Abe, a resident of Canada, earned a hat trick in hockey parlance, for his sculpture “Delicate Balance.” Abe won first place as well as the Sculptor’s Choice award which is voted on by the other contestants and the people’s choice award which is voted on by the visitors at the festival.
Slavian Borecki of Poland earned second place for “Deep Sleep.”
Hanneke Supply of Belgium won third place with “Eye See You.”
Although the rest of the sculptures did not place in the competition, they all deserve recognition for the beauty of their works and the hard work they put into them.
One of these contestants who deserves recognition is Jimmy Bejko of Boston, for his sculpture “I Want To Break Free.” Bejko moved to Boston from Albania recently. This was his second year in the competition.
Despite not winning an award, “Intrepid Innocence (Boop!)” by Damon Meri of Florida, USA, was a fan favorite.
It was hard to find resources or information regarding the inspiration for these sculptures. But, a photographer who spoke to the sculptor told me the sculpture was inspired by Damon’s young niece who is not afraid of anything and would most likely pet a dragon rather than run away if she saw one.
Bruce Phillips of San Diego, California, sculpted “Inner Prison” a sculpture with quite a bit of intricate detail.
Although, it’s not clear, this sculpture may be a nod to mental health and the prison it can create in people as this is similar to a work he created at the Hampton sand sculpture festival called “Imprisoned” which was about mental health and the barriers it can cause.
“Catch Your Dreams” by Jobi Bouchard of Canada also had a lot of intricate details. It also shows how the backs of the sculptures can be as detailed and pretty as the front.
This sculpture depicts something that has been in the news lately. “The Rise of AI” by Matt Deibert of New Jersey, USA, says a lot without being too direct. The face of the sculpture reminded me of C-3PO. For those of you born after 2000, C-3PO was a droid in a really old movie. Oh, never mind.
“Beneath The Flesh” by Joon Park of California, USA, showed off a lot of craftmanship and creativity.
“Ink” by Bouke Atemi pays homage to the squid or octopus who produce ink.
The festival, which ran from July 25-27, also included food stands, a Ferris wheel and other forms of entertainment.
Not all of the “favorites” win a prize. Yet, they all show a tremendous amount of skill and creativity. Do you have a favorite?
Location: 107 Boston St, Salem, MA (30 minutes northeast of Boston, MA, 1.5 hours southeast of Concord, MA)
Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 11am-6pm.
Parking: Free, unmetered parking is available across the street from the museum on Boston St. Do not park in the parking lot behind the museum as this is reserved residency parking.
Summary: The Salem Cat Museum in Salem, MA, has a variety of works of art and activities involving all things cat for people of all ages to enjoy!
Cats and witches have always been connected to each other. So, it makes perfect sense that a new cat museum would open just steps away from the heart of Witch city.
The main feature of the Salem Cat Museum, which opened in November, 2024, is a gallery of artwork, all cat related of course.
The art gallery changes periodically (new pieces will be installed Aug 7). But, not all of the works of art changed. Some works of art are part of their permanent collection.
The gallery includes everything from portraits of cats to some more lighthearted works of art and even some bizarre pieces. And, some of the works of art include familiar Salem landmarks such as the Salem Witch Museum in the background of one of the pieces.
“Cheers” by Diane Teeter (Queens, NY)
Acrylic on paper
“Frolic” by Lauren Barbieri (Newburyport, MA)
India ink on paper
“Brunnhilde II” by Stacie Dolin (Peabody, MA)
Linocut print
Cat Vase by an unknown artist
Porcelain ceramic
“Attack of the 50 Foot Kitty” by Kameko Branchaud “Fu’una” (Providence, RI)
Acrylic on canvas
“Cat With Butterfly” by Jacqueline Sokol (Beverly, MA)
Acrylic on Canvas
“The Monarch Guides” by Diane Teeter (Queens, NY)
Acrylic on wood
“Ghost Kitty” by Kameko Branchaud “Fu’una” (Providence, RI)
Acrylic on canvas
“Dumpling!” by Emily Kwong (Beverly, MA)
Acrylic on canvas
“Salem’s Black Cat: My New Toy” by Wendy Snow Land (Salem, MA)
Acrylic on canvas board
This work of art did not have a sign with any information.
“Candy Cat Girlfriend” by Jane Tardo (New Orleans, LA)
Collage quilt
“Cat Temple” by Matthew Crumpton (Los Angeles, CA)
Arcylic on birch panel
“The Halloween King” by Wendy Snow Land (Salem, MA)
Colored pencil on paper
“Little Devil” by Wendy Snow Lang (Salem, MA)
Colored pencil on paper
“Rainbow Cats” by Elise Towle Snow (Salem, MA)
“Meows” by Michelle Dumas (Salem, MA)
Sequin art on upcycled image
“Secret Keepers (Lynx)” by Andrea Guzzetta (los Angeles, CA)
Oil on panel
“Surf Cats” by Zuly Palomino (Providence, RI)
Mixed media retablo collage
“Cat With Flowers” by Feliz Camille Tu (Brooklyn, NY)
Risograph print on paper
Rainbow Cats by J Morrison (Brooklyn, NY)
Screenprint on paper
“Ella” by Kameko Branchaud “Fu’una” (Providence, RI)
Acrylic on canvas
“Cat Cross” by J. Morrison (Brooklyn, NY)
Screenprint on paper
“Sunbeams” by Laura Casazza (Southbury, CT)
Print on paper
The museum also showcased some ceramics, trinkets (particularly Hello Kitty! merchandise) and other cat-related decor throughout the museum!
Located next to some of the art was a cat doll with some treats in it! Visitors were encouraged to take one home for their kitty. I know from personal experiences, cats do like to chase the springs and (sometimes) return them for you to throw over and over! I haven’t tried the corks before though.
And there are many more amazing works of art in the gallery part of the museum!
The museum has a reading area with comfy chairs to sit and peruse the books in the library.
There is also a mirror for visitors to write their names, the names of their cats or messages on. Drawings of cats, “hiss” and “meow meow” are just some of the things written on the mirror when I visited.
The museum also includes an activity area for visitors of all ages to make cat faces!
This is one of the “must see” Salem attractions off the beaten path to see while still avoiding the throngs of Halloween revelers which are sure to overwhelm Salem in the upcoming weeks, especially since Halloween season seems to be starting earlier and earlier each year there (more on this in a later post).
Location: Hampton Beach, 100 Ocean Blvd, Hampton, NH (1 hour northeast of Boston, MA, 1 hour southeast of Concord, NH)
Summary: 10 sand sculptors from all over the world competed in the 25th annual Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Classic
Turtles, dream homes and mermaids were just a few of the meticulously crafted sand sculptures on display during the 2025 Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Classic at Hampton Beach, New Hampshire.
But, before the artists begin working on their grand sculptures, they all work together to make the center stage sculptures based on the theme of the competition along with a few sculptures for the sponsors of the event. The theme of this year’s event was “Sand Safari.”
Regardless of the theme of the event, the sculptors are free to make sculptures of any theme they wish. And, each sculpture had an interesting story behind them. Some of the meanings and messages behind the sculptures are fairly straight forward, like the first sculpture posted below.
“Monkey Mind” by Andy Daily (Sarasota, Florida). When I first saw this sculpture I thought the face of the person was Fred Flintstone. Then, just some old guy. It’s actually someone much more well known. Apparently, I should watch the news more often.
“It Won’t Stay Forever” by Dmitry Klimenko (St. Petersburg, Russia) won third place in the competition.
“Resilience” by David Ducharme (British Columbia, Canada). Ducharme described its meaning as, “something that finds life in really a harsh environment” much like how seeds growing through pavement and how it mirrors how people can be strong during difficult times.
“Aligned” by Meliniege Beauregard (Captain Cook, Hawaii) won 1st place as well as the “People’s Choice Award” voted on by the visitors of the sand sculpting event and the “Governor’s Choice Award” voted on by Governor Kelly Ayotte.
Beauregard’s piece is about balance and being aligned your external and internal beauty and well being. She said it was about how when you’re centered and you can align your mental, emotional and physical elements so you can create beauty and be creative.
“Manitouk” by Carl Jara (Cleveland, Ohio)
Jara said “Manitouk” is an Ojibwe term loosely meaning “protector spirit.” According to Jara, this sculpture was a response to the big block of sand and how he saw something different in it than what he had initially planned.
“The Creation Of Mermaid” by Ilya Filimontsev (Moscow, Russia) won second place. Filimontsev said his sculpture was his playful take on the painting of the Creation of Adam by Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel.
“Sing” by Karen Fralich (Ontario, Canada). Although this sculpture did not win an award or place in the competition, it was still a fan favorite. It was also one of the few sculptures that may have a better design on the back than the front. Fralich said “singing is important for everyone.” Even for non humans!
“To Touch The Stars” by Karlis Ile (Riga, Latvia) was a tribute to the artist’s son. This sculpture idea came from when he asked his son what he should make and his son answered a turtle.
“Dream Weaver” by Justin Gordon (Groveland, MA) is a reflection of the 25 years of the sculpting competition and all of the things he has learned during his 24 competitions. That’s right. He has competed in all but one of the sand sculpting classic competitions. Gordon said he combined things like open windows and scallops from his time in Kuwait as examples of things he has learned to sculpt over the years.
“VerTickle” by Abe Waterman (Prince Edward Island) won fourth place and, perhaps the most coveted award, the “Sculptor’s Choice Award.” Since the other sculptors know how difficult it is to make these sculptures, one could argue it is the most meaningful award. A play on “vertical”, the sculpture, in Gordon’s words, is “self explanatory.”
Like many people from New England, and, as I noticed from my interactions with people and the various license plates in the parking spaces, from all over the country, I look forward to this event every year. It is also the precursor to the official start of summer. And there may be no better way to kick off the season!
If you did miss the sculptures, don’t fret. They will be on display at Hampton Beach until Monday, June 23.
Location: Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd, Sturbridge, MA
Summary: Guided tours lit only by candle light showcased life before the use of electricity in New England.
It’s hard to believe but there once was a time when luxuries like IPads, streaming services and, of course, electrically powered lighting did not exist. But, Old Sturbridge Village was able to recreate these times at the Evening Of Illumination event in February.
At the first exhibit, the demonstrator showed off some of the different candles and lighting fixtures of the time.
During this event, one of the attendees asked if I could enable silent shooting on my camera as it was difficult to hear the speakers with the shutter of my camera going off. Unfortunately, my camera does not have this function. Modern mirrorless cameras do have this feature. But, my DSLR camera does not have silent mode (although there is a “quiet mode” that still makes a muted sound and is almost like a “slow mode”). So, out of respect for the people in the group, I did switch to video mode and I recorded videos at the historical homes. I did, however, also take a few photos in “quiet mode” when the speakers weren’t speaking. So, most of the remainder of this post will consist of videos from the event. Video recording is not my strong suit, particularly in low light situations and when there are bright light sources in low light. It really is a different skill set. So, I did have some challenges getting the lighting and focus right in some parts of these recordings.
At the next house, a violinist played a few songs. This is her version of “Park Waltz.” I especially like how she threw in a reference to the controversy surrounding her next piece. You may hear her say waltzing is a little bit controversial. In part, this is because waltzing is a form of dance where the dance partners are very close together. So close, in fact, their faces sometimes touched. Additionally, the dance partners would move or turn quickly and the dancing included fast tempos. How gauche!
This historical actor showed everyone what her night time routine was like. Her routine included saying her night time prayers, laying out her clothes and washing her face and hands.
The gentleman at the next house showed us how people kept themselves entertained with a simple candlelight. It’s amazing the images you can create by candlelight.
He also told us some stories that people would share and showed us how people viewed images a s a form of entertainment (way before moving pictures became a thing).
What did people do before board games and apps? The historical actors at this house showed how they kept themselves entertained. Games like charades and asking riddles were popular forms of entertainment.
The shoemaker at the the village explained how a shoemaker’s job was like.
The furniture maker at the village described his job by candlelight.
A young couple talked about their lives as young people with a child.
Carolers sang “Yankee Doodle Dandy” at the Meetinghouse.
The shop keeper explained the details of her job and some of the merchandise in the shop.
There were also some great photo opportunities in the tavern and lobby.
If that wasn’t enough, there was also dancing! All the visitors were invited to watch and participate in dancing at the tavern.
While this event was a lot of fun and very informative, it also made me appreciate the luxuries I have!
Summary: Pixels from some of our favorite video games (think Mario) and flowers were the main attraction at this event.
An assortment of colorful flowers were mixed with colorful blocks or pixels. Being a former gamer myself, this was the perfect mix of aromatic flowers and nostalgia.
All of the orchids, over 2,000 to be precise, provided some color to the dreary winter. The flowers were meant to evoke the aesthetic of retro video games.
The orchids were displayed in two subtropical conservatories. Each conservatory had a variety of colorful pixels. in the room and hanging from the ceiling.
I did learn something, besides the innumerable types of orchids that exist. I also learned to get the best photos of these flowers, you really need a macro lens. I didn’t have one at the time of this photo shoot. So, I took these photos with a 35 mm prime lens. Then, I quickly went out and bought a macro lens for future flower shoots.
There was also pixel and petal based art and info in the hallways and learning center.
An added bonus was the “find Yeti” challenge on the grounds of the botanic garden.
Can you see them?
They’re pretty good at hiding. But, I was able to find them during my walk through the grounds.
Summary: 17 spots (24 works of art) in downtown Boston (Downtown Crossing, Government Center and Rose Kennedy Greenway to be exact) with some fun and artistic exhibits
In it’s second year, the Winteractive exhibit in Boston, MA, featured a variety of creative and, in some cases, illuminated art displays.
The displays, which were scattered throughout the Downtown Crossing, Government Center and Rose Kennedy Greenway areas were created by a combination of American artists and our friends from the north in Canada.
The first exhibit at Winteractive was actually one of the six Mr. Pink inflatables.
Winthrop Center
Mr. Pink #1 (pvc, steel and cable)
Federal St
Located at Winthrop Center, Mr. Pink 1 was sneaking a peak into the Vermilion Club on Federal St. “Monsieur Rose” (Mr. Pink) is a considered a type of art called Mignonisme or Cuteism. Mignonisme is a form of art that embraces the aesthetics of cuteness in our physical and psychological environments. You will see a few more of Mr. Pink (6 in total) in this exhibition.
The Living Lantern
NEON Studio & Frankie Boyle
Shopper’s Plaza, Washington St
As you can see by the photos above, the Living Lantern offers a sense of light and hope. Visitors were encouraged to spend time and observe the lanterns change color, The changing colors were meant to express a deeper and longer lasting emotional relationship between people and their surroundings. The animated light colors infused the space with flowing colors. Video of the lantern can be viewed at the bottom of the post.
No, that’s not my car. For one, it has less miles on it. But, it does remind me of the debris one might encounter on our highways in New England.
This art installation called Alouette is meant to be a representation of the failed promise of a brighter future. It also could equally represent the ever-growing obsession with connectivity and the resulting accumulation of space waste. This exhibit was made in 2017 by Brandon Vickerd who hails from Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Brandon likes to introduce anomalies into everyday life to show the failures of scientific positivism and the utopia of its boundless progress.
Sonic Runway
Rob Jensen and Warren Trezevant,
Government Center
The Sonic Runway was a light-art installation that converts audio signals into patterns of light that shoot down a 342 to 432 ft (105 to 132 meters) corridor of 20 to 25 LED lined arches at the speed of sound.
At the front of the Runway, the observers see musical sound waves rippling away from them. Walking down the corridor, sound and light are always in sync. Looking back from the far end, walkers can see the sound waves coming at them, and hear the music as the pattern reaches them.
Mr. Pink 2
Philippe Katerine
Historic Boston Inc, School St
Mr Pink was located on the roof top of Historic Boston, Inc. on School St.
Celestial Garden
Lucion
Dewey Square, Rose Kennedy Greenway
One of my favorite displays in the Winteractive exhibit, Celestial Garden features a group of circular shaped spheres that change colors with the largest sphere housing some interesting works of art.
Celestial Garden was described a sa unique artistic installation that illuminates the heart of Boston. Inside the 30 foot in diameter sphere, a fantastical garden comes to life, blending sky, land and sea. This immersive space is home to fantastic plants and creatures, created from cut-outs painted with fluorescent colors that light up under the black light as soon as night falls.
Nature’s Glow
Mike Geiger
Summer St Pedestrian Walkway
Nature’s Glow was described as a light installation that stood as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of the spiritual and natural worlds. The design symbolized the nurturing embrace of a forest spirit, manifested in the structural framing, which tenderly shelters a bed of foliage. The spirit’s serene, watchful presence connects us to the nurturing forces of nature, reminding us of our intrinsic bond with the environment. This installation encourages visitors to reflect on their own relationship with nature and the unseen forces that protect and surround it.
Slap Shot
LeMonde Studio
High St
Slap Shot was a human powered hockey stick and puck. There was a little crank you could turn that turned on the lights on the stick and puck. You might see the lights on the white tape of the stick. There were also lights on the puck!
The exhibit celebrated the NHL’s first-ever 4 Nations Face-Off coming that took place in February, when Montreal & Boston served as host cities to some the best hockey players in the world representing their home countries: the US, Canada, Sweden, and Finland.
Mr Pink 3
Philippe Katerina
Post Office Square
Mr Pink was also found in the trees at Post Office Square.
Mr Pink 4
Philippe Katerina
the alley next to Barry’s on Chauncy St
Cycle
Serge Maheu
Government Center
The next exhibit, Cycle, was located at Government Center. It was lit up and it did change colors.
Cycle is an interactive installation inspired by the revolutions of the sun and the moon, that illuminates open spaces.
Composed of a series of modules allowing various configurations, and equipped with several light animation sequences, Cycle delights with its variations in intensity and color. Diffusing brightness from its core, it evokes the halo effect of an eclipse.
In a maestria of light and sound, Cycle comes to life at the rhythm of bystanders’ interactions. By moving to the beat of the ambient music, the young and the young at heart transmit their energy to Cycle, transforming it into a larger-than-life musical sequencer.
Hockey Hijinks
Brandy Saturley
Boston Downtown Window Display
This display combined Canada hockey and art history. Some of the art, such as the woman with the man in the Montreal Canadiens jersey are callbacks to real art (in this case American Gothic).
A Winter Messenger
Breehan James
Boston Downtown Mural
In folklore, white deer are said to bring luck and good fortune. In some cultures, they are associated with enlightenment, healing and personal growth. They are said to inspire us to seek wisdom, seek wisdom and embrace change while finding meaning and beauty in our connection to the natural world.
Nature’s Solace
Mike Geiger
New England Sea Aquarium
Nature’s Solace is a light installation that symbolizes the balance between the spirit and nature. This design captures the essence of multiple forest guardians, whose presence is echoed in the structure that gently houses a lush canopy of greenery. The guardians’ calm and protective aura serves as a reminder of our deep connection to the earth and its caretakers.
Mr. Pink 5
Philippe Katerina
Hyatt Regency Boston
This Mr. Pink could be found pointing at passerbys.
Polar Bear Passages
Brandy Saturley
Polar Bears (Ursus maritimus) are magical creatures, loved by many. These white beauties often stir deep emotions in humans, especially now as their habitats are disappearing due to global warming. The Polar Bear is seen as a guiding spirit when facing dramatic life transitions, especially at the onset of a new path or major change in life. Capturing the playful and inquisitive creature as he searches for a new home.
Mr Pink 6
Philippe Katerine
29 Winter St
This high flying Mr Pink attracted large crowds!
It has only been a little over a month since Winteractive 2025 ended and they’re already planning for Winteractive 2026 on their website! And I plan on being there!
Please see below for some videos from the event!
I have been continuing my review of books by authors from New England or about New England. The latest book I re-read was Following Atticus by Tom Ryan (304 pages).
Without revealing too many spoilers, the book is an inspiring story of a man and his love of hiking and, more specifically, his love of hiking with his dog, Atticus. What a pleasure it was to re-read this gem! In fact, I feel like re-reading it again! The story isn’t just about a man and his dog, though (although it is the main plot). There are also stories of the challenges he faced with his family and other people in his community. You don’t have to love or even like hiking or dogs (however weird that seems) to enjoy this book. Although, it may help if you do.
You can read my full review (with spoilers) at my good read profile below.
Location: Botanic Garden at Smith College, 16 College Lane Northampton, MA (2 hours northwest of Boston, MA)
Summary: Chrysanthemums in a variety of shapes and hues took center stage at the botanic garden. There were also a few additional surprises at last year’s event.
It’s amazing the things you find when you finally clean up. I came across a memory card I thought I had lost. Among the photos in the memory card was the colorful “Mums Show” at the Botanic Garden at Smith College. I am especially glad I was able to post these photos for a reason I will reveal later. I hope you enjoy viewing them as much I enjoyed taking these photos!
This was the last Mums show at Smith College. There are a variety of reasons why Smith College is ending this tradition. It was a tradition that lasted over 120 years. The main reasons for their decision are minimizing pesticide usage, prioritizing educational opportunities as well as the lack of space, resources and staff required to put on the show.
The show spanned two greenhouses jam packed with colorful mums. The second greenhouse of the exhibit features hybridized mums created by students in Gaby Immerman’s class: Plants in the Landscape. Gabby holds a joint appointment as biology faculty and as the experiential learning specialist. Besides being a teacher at Smith College, Gaby has also served on the Board of Grow Food Northampton.
You may notice some numbers in or near some of the mums. Visitors could vote for their favorite mums. Finally, an election I can get excited about.
The mums were in full display throughout the show. I love how they always seem to mix the colors of the different flowers and plants.
As I found out during this show, there are a wide variety of types of Chrysanthemums. This “mum” is called a Early-Flowering Incurved Chrysanthemum, or Incurved Mum.
The Mums Show features not only Chrysanthemums but a variety of trees, plants and flowers. This Theobroma cacao Malvaceae, or more commonly known as the cacao tree or cocoa tree, smells just like cocoa or chocolate. This makes sense since its seeds are used to make cocoa butter, chocolate liquor, cocoa solids and, of course, chocolate. Since the tree is native to the tropics of the Americas, the area where this tree was planted and cared for had to be kept at a relatively warm temperature and humid climate.
These star like flowers are called Hoya Carnosa (aka the wax plant or porcelain flower). It is native to East Asia.
So, if “mums: aren’t your thing, there are lots of other trees, plants and flowers to attract your attention.
You may notice what looks like steam or more accurately condensation in some of the photos. This is due to the warm climate in the room with the cocoa tree and other plants, trees and flowers that required a warmer temperature to thrive.
I was able to enter the botanic garden and hour early. So, I was able to get most of my photos without people in the background of the photos (one of my pet peeves). I did get this guy hard at work in my photo though.
One of my favorite parts of the botanic garden is this wall of cacti.
This cactus looked kind of creepy! It reminded me of a creepy crawler you might see in a horror or sci-fi show!
There also was a preview of one of the temporary exhibits at the garden called “Botanical Bodies: When Identity Blossoms On Skin.” The exhibit showcased photos of tattoos that people, some students and faculty at the college, have on their bodies.
The student-curated photography exhibit explores the intimate relationship between nature and personal identity through photographs and stories of individuals adorned with botanical tattoos that celebrate the beauty and diversity of plant life as a form of self-expression. Each photo is said to tell a story that connects us to nature, heritage and personal meaning. The exhibit, which was installed at the end of January, will run through May 30, 2025. So, there is still time to see it!
New England Nomad 