Category: News

Timely posts about Willowwood.

President’s Message Fall 2023

Seward Johnson, La Promenade, 1995 The Seward Johnson Atelier Inc
Seward Johnson, La Promenade, 1995 The Seward Johnson Atelier Inc

Dear Friends of the Willowwood Arboretum,

Autumn is in the air at Willowwood where fall’s finest blooms are complemented by the ten Seward Johnson’s sculptures scattered throughout the arboretum. If you have not yet seen this Living Sculpture Exhibit, be sure to pay a visit before it winds down in November.  A whimsical experience and beautiful gardens await for fantastic fall foliage photos opportunities!  Click here for more information on this beautiful exhibit.

The Willowwood Foundation’s fall fundraiser concert, “Sounds for Sculpture”, added “living sound” to celebrate the Seward Johnson sculpture exhibit on September 10, 2023 at The Willow School.  Internationally renowned jazz vibraphonist, pianist and composer, Christian Tamburr, and his amazing band members: Griffin Fink, Tatum Greenblatt, Carmen Intorre, Jr., and Oscar Perez performed “The Awakening.”  

A lovely musician’s reception was held at Willowwood’s historic Stone Barn after the performance along with an opportunity for guests to tour the sculptures.  

Willow School Workshop
Willow School Workshop

The day after the concert, Willow School students enjoyed a musical workshop led by Christian and his musicians.  Students responded enthusiastically to both the music and the musicians’ questions. At the close of the program, one youngster held up his hand to inquire when the group would be coming back to perform again!  Our sincere thanks to The Willow School staff for providing the beautiful concert venue and assisting to make the “Sounds for Sculpture” fundraiser a success.  

Many thanks to our corporate sponsors below with heartfelt appreciation for their generous support in helping the Willowwood Foundation continue to thrive.  

  • Elberon Development Group
  • Simon Quick Advisors
  • Habba Madaio & Associates LLP
  • Peapack-Gladstone Bank  
Sussex County ARC
Sussex County ARC

The Willowwood Foundation supported another positive event on September 14th, at Willowwood Arboretum.  The Sussex County ARC participated in a Horticultural Therapy program led by Morris County Park Commission staff members Ann Fahey and Gwen Montgomery.  Participants created beautiful floral arrangements and demonstrated that Horticultural Therapy is a wonderful way to bring people of all abilities closer to nature while creating a safe social, educational, and recreational environment. 

For a glimpse at our busy month, check out our photo montage and be sure to carve out some time to visit Willowwood soon.  Wishing you a colorful fall!

With best regards,

Meryl Carmel, President

Willowwood Foundation

The World of French Impressionism (11/11)

Take a stroll through 19th century France and learn how the Impressionists changed the art world forever. Learn a Victorian craft: yarn pom-poms! Children and adults will be instructed on the handicraft’s unusual French history and go home with a handmade pompon of their own. Topics include Caillebotte’s Paris Street; Rainy Day (1877), Renoir’s Two Sisters on the Terrace (1881), and Claude Monet.
  • Dates: November 11
  • Time: 10 am – 11 am and 1 pm – 2 pm
  • Age: All ages.
  • Where: Willowwood Arboretum, 300 Longview Road, Chester Township, NJ 07930
  • Cost: $15 per person.
  • Contact: Preregistration is required. For more information, call 973.326.7601.

Plants Through Time (10/19)

Travel through time on this exploration of plants and their adaptability to the changing world.
  • Dates: October 19
  • Time: 1 pm – 2 pm
  • Age: Adults.
  • Where: Willowwood Arboretum, 300 Longview Road, Chester Township, NJ 07930
  • Cost: $15 per person.
  • Contact: Preregistration is required. For more information, call 973.326.7601.

Nature Through the Senses (10/5)

Join us for a guided, tranquil tour to immerse yourself in the environment and feel the benefits the natural world has to provide.
  • Dates: October 5
  • Time: 10 am – 11 am and 3 pm – 4 pm
  • Age: Adults.
  • Where: Willowwood Arboretum, 300 Longview Road, Chester Township, NJ 07930
  • Cost: $15 per person.
  • Contact: Preregistration is required. For more information, call 973.326.7601.

History Inspiring Art Walk & Talk (9/28, 10/7)

Many creators, makers, and artists draw their inspiration from the past. Enjoy an inspiring walk through history as we discuss the architecture and the artistry that has influenced Willowwood Arboretum. See inside the 1790s, Tubbs House and explore the decorative art collection of Henry and Robert Tubbs and Ben Blackburn.”
  • Dates: September 28 and October 7
  • Time: 11 am – 12 noon and 1 pm – 2 pm
  • Age: Adults.
  • Where: Willowwood Arboretum, 300 Longview Road, Chester Township, NJ 07930
  • Cost: $20 per person.
  • Contact: Preregistration is required. For more information, call 973.326.7601.