Meet: Forest Forms

Explore the beauty of art and nature at Lockerly Arboretum with Forest Forms, an exhibit featuring over 20 unique sculptures by Huelani Mei, an Atlanta, Georgia-based artist. Crafted from powder-coated steel in a linework style, these intricate pieces depict woodland creatures and plants scattered throughout the Arboretum's scenic landscape. Ranging from 5 to 20 feet tall, the sculptures seamlessly blend into the changing environment, offering a fresh way to experience both art and nature.

Discover Lockerly Arboretum

Lockerly Arboretum, just a short drive from downtown Milledgeville, provides the perfect setting for this artistic display. Its 50-acre grounds feature scenic walking trails, a pond, and historic Rose Hill, a Greek Revival home dating back to 1852. The combination of history and natural beauty creates an idyllic environment for this limited-time exhibit.

Sculptures that Bring Nature to Life

The sculptures in Forest Forms invite a whimsical adventure. As you explore the Arboretum, you’ll encounter these beautifully crafted pieces. Along your path, look for "Zip" the hummingbird near the pond or marvel at "Carl," the peacock standing tall and proud in front of Rose Hill. Each sculpture comes with an information card, offering fun facts about the species depicted. The artworks blend effortlessly with nature, giving visitors a playful, yet informative experience.

Forest Forms Through the Seasons

The landscape still boasts the vibrant greens of grass and trees, but as autumn continues to roll in, the sculptures will be framed by a new backdrop of reds, yellows, and oranges. In mid-November, Lockerly in Lights will bring the arboretum to life with a festive holiday light display, creating a whole new way to enjoy these whimsical sculptures. Whether you visit in the crisp fall air or under the twinkling holiday lights, this exhibit promises a fresh experience with every visit. After the holidays, there's still time to visit until the exhibit closes on January 5, 2025.

Meet the Artist: Huelani Mei

Huelani Mei is an accomplished artist based in Atlanta, where she operates her own metal fabrication shop, Hue Designs. With a Bachelor's Degree in Sculpture and Fine Arts from Georgia State University, she has a diverse background that began as a scenic artist for hotels and museums. Today, Huelani focuses on commissioned metalwork and her own sculptural creations for public exhibitions. Her passion for art is deeply connected to nature, as she seeks inspiration from the outdoors and spends much of her time outside.

Extended Hours for Exploration

To provide guests with more opportunities to immerse themselves in the art and the changing landscape, Lockerly Arboretum will extend its hours until 7:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Throughout October, Milledgeville Allied Arts will be onsite on Thursday evenings from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., offering engaging crafts for children related to the exhibit. This unique experience ensures that families can create lasting memories together. Whether you visit during crisp fall afternoons or under the enchanting glow of holiday lights, you can expect something special with each visit to the exhibit.