Thursday we met up with our friend Maxine and her college roommate Carol, who lives in Tucson. Carol had suggested that we meet for brunch at Tohono Chul (the name means desert corner) and then explore the grounds and galleries there. The site was formerly the home of Richard and Jean Wilson. They deeded it to a non-profit foundation in order to “keep something natural in the middle of all the (surrounding) development so that people could come easily for a few hours and get out of the traffic and learn something at the same time”
We had a really tasty and interesting brunch in the bistrot located in the former Wilson home. I’m sorry I didn’t take any pictures of the food or the space, which was lovely with indoor, courtyard, and verandah seating. Again we were too wrapped up in conversation for pictures.
After brunch, we strolled around the grounds which feature many of the local plants and cacti as well as sculpture and other installations.
Carol, on the left in the picture below, generously guided us along, explaining the history, naming the plants and answering our questions. The depth of her knowledge was impressive and much appreciated.
Here’s a panoramic view of one section of the walk
There is also an outdoor concert space and a couple of small art galleries back by the main house. Here are a few pieces that caught my fancy:
[In order: 1)Tumbleweed, Sandario Road, Tucon by Kate Breakey 2&3) Shrines to Botanical Relics #10 and #23 by Barbara Rogers 3) Tumbleweed, Avra Road, Tucson by Breakey