Back to Nature

On February 23, 1944, Anne Frank wrote in her diary, “I firmly believe that Nature brings solace in all troubles.” Inspired by the wisdom of a young girl who endured unimaginable fear and depended on the kindness of others for survival, we offer this quiet moment of reflection in turbulent times.

Back to Nature features selected works from the Power of the Presses exhibition, including the extraordinary botanical books of Radha Pandey. Her pieces, Flora of Mughal India and Anatomia Botanica, are given special focus to allow for deeper appreciation. Flora of Mughal India invites us into the lush gardens and floral heritage of the Indian subcontinent through a collaboration with contemporary artisans. Anatomia Botanica, with its intricate cutouts and fold-downs, reveals the inner structures of flowers—each book a result of deep research and exquisite craftsmanship.

Also featured is Farewell Florilegium by Alisa Banks. Reflecting on the personal nature of place, Banks writes, “Farewell Florilegium is an ode to my former garden—my first ‘real’ garden.” The book’s covers are formed from recycled paper dried in plaster molds, and the back cover contains a vial of tinctures made from plants she harvested before moving. Banks crafted handmade paper from cotton and abaca fibers and created hand-cut stencils of simplified plant shapes to echo the essence of her lost garden. Her writing, prompted by the invitation to reflect on a beloved place, reminds us that solace often resides in memory.

With several dozen artists represented—many of whom are also naturalists or part-time scientists—Back to Nature brings a blooming collection to the Sherry Grover Gallery. Here, visitors are invited to rest their minds and find comfort in the enduring beauty of the natural world.