Calder Gardens launches programs to engage the community and promote art initiatives.
Juana Berrío, a seasoned curator, arts administrator, and programmer from Colombia, has been appointed as the Marsha Perelman Senior Director of Programs at Calder Gardens. With extensive experience in fostering artistic initiatives, Berrío is poised to shape the cultural landscape of this new Philadelphia institution. In anticipation of the gardens’ public opening, she shared her vision for this ambitious project.
Berrío’s artistic philosophy is deeply rooted in an artist-centric approach, emphasizing environmental consciousness as an integral component of cultural production. She believes that the relationship between nature and artistry is profound, intertwining every aspect of human existence. Her commitment to nurturing emerging talents and collaborating with fellow artists aims to broaden the collective understanding of environmental issues and their cultural implications. Berrío proudly identifies as a “cultural instigator,” intent on sparking meaningful dialogues within the art community.
At Calder Gardens, Berrío’s focus lies on honoring artists’ legacies while advocating for diverse narratives. She expresses particular interest in how these stories can intersect with environmental themes. The dynamic and evolving nature of Calder Gardens resonates with her belief in the impermanence of artistic expression and the interconnectedness of life. This living entity embodies the notion of change and adaptability, shaping the foundation of her directorial vision.
The influence of Alexander Calder, whose work is emblematic of innovation and intuition, looms over Calder Gardens’ programming. Berrío seeks not only to showcase Calder’s renowned artworks but also to highlight his holistic artistic process characterized by risk-taking and collaboration. This focus on introspection encourages visitors to engage with the art and their surroundings thoughtfully.
In the inaugural year of programming, Berrío plans to collaborate with multidisciplinary artists, including Raven Chacon and Cecilia Vicuña. Their visionary contributions will span seasons, emphasizing the cyclical nature of growth and the nurturing aspect of the gardens. Chacon will explore sonic experiences that interact with Calder Gardens’ environment, while Vicuña aims to gather communities through storytelling and artistic expression.
Philadelphia’s rich gardening culture inspires Berrío’s approach, as she intends to create an inclusive space that mirrors the city’s diverse musical heritage. Recognizing Philadelphia’s status as a hub for various artistic forms, Berrío envisions Calder Gardens as a sanctuary where community members can converge, reflect, and connect through sound, nature, and art.
Ultimately, Berrío seeks to foster a sense of curiosity and belonging among visitors, encouraging them to explore their relationship with the world, even during brief visits. She hopes to expand the discourse around interconnectedness, drawing parallels between local ecosystems and global environments, such as the Amazon.
As Calder Gardens embarks on this new artistic journey, Berrío’s direction promises to cultivate a vibrant community oriented towards growth, reflection, and creative engagement within the heart of Philadelphia’s cultural landscape.
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