FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANIC GARDEN LAUNCHES “THE ART OF THE FLOWER” PHOTO COMPETITION IN HONOR OF NATIONAL PUBLIC GARDENS DAY
Miami, FL (March 27, 2012) – Are you a great photographer? Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is proud to launch a special opportunity with its “The Art of the Flower” photography competition in honor of National Public Gardens Day on Friday, May 11. This first-time effort will seek the best natural photographs of any and all flowers in the wild, at home or anywhere they exist.
All photographers are welcome to submit their best photos depicting beautiful flowers adorning trees and shrubs, orchids, bromeliads or more by Thursday, April 19. The best photographs will then be chosen to be posted on Facebook for the public to vote for their favorite picks. The top fan favorites will be eligible to be on display atFairchild Tropical Botanic Garden during National Public Gardens Day. The photographer who receives the most fan votes will receive a one-year dual (admits two adults) membership to Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden and a $100 certificate to enjoy Truluck’s at 777 Brickell in Miami.
Held just two days before Mother’s Day, National Public Gardens Day is a national day of celebration that invites communities to explore the beauty of their local green spaces, while raising awareness of the important role public gardens play in promoting conservation, education and environmental preservation. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden will mark this special day with FREE admission for everyone to enjoy its 83 acres of lush landscaping and admire the monumental sculptures of American artists Will Ryman and Dale Chihuly or simply sit on a bench and read a favorite book. As a special Mother’s Day treat, visitors will also enjoy a free native plant giveaway of many that were propagated at Fairchild’s nursery – while supplies last.
“This effort is another example our strong commitment to educate, enlighten and inspire the public to value green spaces and to recognize the importance of natural conservation,” said Carl Lewis, Director of Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. “We welcome these photographs and the opportunity to further enhance our community outreach with National Public Gardens Day.”
Fairchild is one of the premier conservation and education-based gardens in the world and a recognized international leader in both Florida and international conservation. National Public Gardens Day is a wonderful opportunity for school groups, families and thousands of visitors to explore and discover their local public garden, while learning about the garden’s commitment to education, research and environmental stewardship.
A partnership between the American Public Gardens Association (APGA) and Rain Bird, the world’s leading manufacturer and provider of irrigation products and services, the 2012 National Public Gardens Day will showcase the contributions of public gardens with special events at many of the more than 500 North American public gardens. This annual recognition is supported by a national awareness campaign that includes broadcast public service announcements, media partnerships, local and national spokespeople, online contests and media tours all focused on communicating the importance of building sustainable environments through improved plant management and water conservation, education and community engagement.
For more information about The Art of the Flower photography competition in honor of National Public Gardens Day, visit www.fairchildgarden.org.