by Evelyn J. Mocbeichel
Are you tired of this frosty wintery weather and shoveling snow? When you look out the window and see dreary, overcast skies and wish you could enjoy the beauty of the floral world and warm weather? Happily, there is a way to enjoy a day trip to be immersed in an orchid world of stunning beauty at the New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) now. The Orchid Show: Mexican Modernism runs through April 27, 2025 and is the 22nd edition of the annual celebration of all things orchids at NYBG carries visitors to the vibrant setting of Mexico. Set off on a journey where the fusion of tradition and contemporary artistry takes center stage amid awe-inspiring displays of orchids and other eye-catching supporting plants in the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, a breathtaking crystal designed building. Wander through lush landscapes brought into vivid relief with thousands of flowers that showcase diverse ecosystems and rich culture. Among bright arrangements of orchids in settings inspired by the bold, multicolored designs of Mexican modernist architect Luis Barragán (1902–1988), guests can visit a paradise of tropical beauty, without ever leaving the Bronx! On select evenings, experience Orchid Nights, “the lushest bar in town,” with the first started on February 15. These picture-perfect outings, for adults 21 and over, feature music and dancing, cash bars, and food for purchase among the energetic color and style of the exhibition.
In NYBG’s Arthur and Janet Ross Gallery, Mexican-American visual artist Martirene Alcántara presents Homage to Luis Barragán: An Act of Poetry, her series of still images capturing the essence of architect Luis Barragán’s vibrantly colorful and geometric works. Among shadow, light, and contrasting palettes, explore the inspiration behind the imaginative designs found in this year’s edition of The Orchid Show. Visitors will stroll among thousands of orchids, bringing the textures and forms of Barragán’s style to life with fountain features and colorful walls and lattices. Mexico’s wide range of ecosystems contains 10–12 percent of the world’s species, making it one of the largest biodiversity hotspots on Earth. This includes more than 1,300 orchid species, about 40 percent of which are endemic, they are not found anywhere else in the world. In addition to the expansive variety of lush and beautiful orchids, this year’s Orchid Show also highlights succulents, such as cacti and agave. While immersed in thousands of flowers, visitors will learn about orchids in the wild and NYBG’s ongoing worldwide orchid research and conservation.
Orchids aren’t just found in exotic locations such as the tropics; they’re everywhere, including right here in New York State, and NYBG scientists are still discovering new species. On select weekend dates throughout the exhibition, visitors may learn about orchids and their care from NYBG’s horticulture staff. The Orchid Show is a must-see for seasoned orchid enthusiasts and for NYBG new-comers alike, promising bold colors and a celebration of Mexico’s rich botanical history.
Public programming during the exhibition include: Orchid Basics Q&A – Weekends and Wednesdays, through April 27, 2025, 2–5pm. NYBG Shop – While browsing NYBG Shop’s varied collection of orchids on offer for purchase, get tips from expert NYBG Volunteers for selecting the right one for any home—and how to successfully grow, rescue, and care for these exotic plants. It’s a great opportunity to start an orchid collection. Meet the Orchid Experts will be held on select dates through April 27th, 2025. To see some of the floral designs in this NYBG exhibit and learn about various orchid programs and dates for special events, visit them at https://www.nybg.org/event/the-orchid-show-mexican-modernism/
The New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) has been a connective hub among people, plants, and the shared planet since 1891. For more than 130 years, NYBG has been rooted in the cultural fabric of New York City, in the heart of the Bronx, its greenest borough. NYBG has invited millions of visitors to make the Garden a part of their lives, exploring the joy, beauty, and respite of nature. NYBG’s 250 acres are home to renowned exhibitions, immersive botanical experiences, art and music, and events with some of the most influential figures in plant and fungal science, horticulture, and the humanities. NYBG is also a steward of globally significant The New York Botanical Garden is located at 2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, New York 10458. For more information, visit www.nybg.org
