The Last Word: Double Take! ‘Living’ Sculptures Fool the Eye at Fort Worth Botanic Garden

“Guests will find themselves taking a second look each time they encounter these lifelike art displays.”

Patrick Newman
President and CEO
Fort Worth Botanic Garden
.…on its latest installation of 21 unique “living” sculptures by artist Seward Johnson

Patrick Newman says the artist’s “unique sculptures exist in an exciting place between realism and fantasy.”

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden will host Seward Johnson Sculptures in the Garden from March 1 through September 1. The art installation of the hyper-realistic sculptures aims to surprise visitors and fool the eye, as they encounter “living” art that blurs the line between imagination and reality.

Designed for a double-take

Strategically placed to blend into the surroundings, Johnson’s three-dimensional creations transform mundane moments and classic art into striking tableaus. A couple dancing, a young girl cuddling her dog, a family enjoying a picnic—each detailed sculpture seems to freeze a slice of life in time.

[Photo: Matt Yao]

Artist, visionary, and philanthropist

Johnson—often called “America’s most popular sculptor”— is known for his “man on the street” works and Impressionist scenes that allow visitors to step into famous paintings. More than 400 of his lifelike cast bronze figures have been exhibited in high-profile locations, from New York’s Times Square to summits like the G20 World Leaders Conference. “Double Check,” a bronze sculpture at Ground Zero that survived the attacks on 9/11, is considered one of his most memorable sculptures.

Entrance to Seward Johnson Sculptures in the Garden is included with the purchase of regular Botanic Garden admission through May 30. Starting March 1, the garden will be open to the public 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. To purchase tickets in advance, visit fwbg.org. Kids aged 5 and under are free. 

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