Learning
at the Center will be focused on broadening our views of the natural
world and its people and places. There may be rotating photography
and art exhibits focused on nature and on naturalist expeditions
and cultural explorations. A library will house historic and rare
botanic book collections as well as serve as an on-line clearing-house
for information on biodiversity and the earth sciences.
Multi-media
meeting space and web-based communication will be designed into
the Learning Center where people locally and internationally will
be invited to share their small and great strides toward moving
us forward.
This space
also will provide opportunities to transport us to other cultures
and environments through narratives and film as well as through
live-time links that allow you to span the face of the planet
without leaving the City.
Visitor amenities
will include a small café and a restaurant where you can
enjoy lunch or a dinner of local produce or exotic faresin nature
or just stop by for a warm drink on a cold day.
A flexible
space will be created to support different activities and events
and seasons throughout the year. The facility as a whole will
be designed to allow spaces to be transformed as time and relevancy
of exhibits evolve.We will design the structures and outdoor gardens
to create an integrated campus and to work well within the geometry
of the four acres.
You will
be able simply to enjoy the beauty and solitude of nature, or
partake fully in the personal enrichment opportunities that will
be offered. Ultimately, inspiration from nature may engender a
sense of personal awakening, spark a cultural awakening on a community
level, and lead to positive social action on a global scale. |