15.24 m), with a loop path weaving through the center
upon which visitors could wander around, and with
entrances/exits to the rest of the garden at two oppo-
site ends. Ferns, palms, and understory plants create
a dense and lush landscape in all directions, from the
ground up to far overhead. Four audio speakers lined
the perimeter of the installation space, each connected
to a specific plant adjacent to each speaker, playing
unique ambient sounds generated by each plant in real
time. The notes playing out of each speaker were dif-
ferent, yet complementary to the others, creating a
rich soundscape in quadraphonic surround sound.
Four pairs of LED stage lights throughout the space
ebbed, flowed, and flashed, illuminating fronds,
leaves, and trunks paired with shadowy silhouettes.
A custom-made fog curtain spewed blasts of fog
across the threshold of one entrance, framing the
space dramatically, while another fog machine in the
center of the space spread low-lying fog across the
Palmetum's floor. A three-minute video of 3D digital
animations was projected on one of the walls, fea-
turing a variety of dynamic palm trees, landscapes,
and cityscapes highlighting the connectedness of
technology and nature. A video monitor scrolled
text that was written to explain the concept of the
installation and how it was technically achieved.
What was the effect on the audience?
Upon entering the space, the impact on the visitors was
apparent. Some calmly wandered the space, exploring it
with their eyes and ears. Some stopped in astonishment
or disbelief. Others quietly stood still or found a seat to
enjoy the serenity. The overall response was strongly
positive. Shepard says, "So many people came up to us
to tell us how calm they felt in the space, which was
wonderful because we are hoping that for some folks
who don't already feel a deep connection to nature, this
immersive experience could be an entry point." Shepard
says he and Moore see the installation as functioning
for many others as part art therapy, part eco-therapy.
Over 300 artists contributed to the 2021 Autumn
Lights Festival, but Mayor Libby Schaff pre-
sented Palm Reflections with her Mayor's Award
due to its cutting edge technical engineering
and the profound impact it had on her. >>
PlantWave unit (center) with electrodes attached to
palm, whose conductivity data translates as music
from the speaker. Photo by Jason Favreau
urban-forestry.com 35
