[photo credit: Descanso Gardens]
“Roots of Cool: A Celebration of Trees and Shade in a Warming World” transforms scientific research into an immersive artistic experience exploring the critical role of shade in urban environments.
“Everyone has experienced this theme viscerally … through the lens of art, in a manner that would enable people to tap into something they are already familiar with — but through an aesthetic, heart-first approach,” said Edith de Guzman, co-curator and researcher with UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation.
The exhibition showcases indoor and outdoor installations focused on “shade equity,” including imaginative bus stops, suspended umbrellas, and a “forest” of love letters to the future.
“Even with good intent, we’re still far from achieving equitable access to shade,” de Guzman noted.
Inspired by the Luskin Center’s national Shade Map, the exhibition was co-curated by Edith and Jolly de Guzman. It runs daily from July 12 to October 12, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Sturt Haaga Gallery, Boddy House, and throughout the gardens.
The opening reception takes place July 11 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. with free admission. Related programs include curator-led tours (July 12), “Cultivate: Made in the Shade” (July 25), and “A Celebration of Cool” (August 2) featuring panel discussions, free tree giveaways, and art workshops.
Roots of Cool: A Celebration of Trees and Shade in a Warming World will run on Friday, July 12 through Saturday, October 12 at 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr., La Cañada Flintridge. For more information, call (818) 949-4200 or visit: https://www.
