Cleveland Public Library is in full bloom. The Archive by British artist Rebecca Louise Law (photo, at left) opened to the public June 10, 2023, in Brett Hall at the Main Library in downtown Cleveland, Ohio.

The Archive is a breathtaking installation composed of thousands of delicate flowers suspended in a display that celebrates the beauty of life. Every blossom is suspended with intention, arranged in color gradations, creating an ethereal, dreamlike effect that invites visitors to immerse themselves in the installation and lose themselves in its beauty.

“The Archive will be a sensory journey for visitors to Cleveland Public Library,” said Tiffany Graham Charkosky, Director of Arts and Culture at Cleveland Public Library. “The Archive is a vibrant reminder of the Library’s role as a guardian of knowledge and a portal to limitless imagination. It encourages visitors to explore the delicate interplay between words and nature.”

Rebecca Louise Law is known for creating immersive installations with natural materials. Preserved flowers have become the signature of her most recognized works, highlighting Law’s commitment to environmental sustainability and her connection to nature. Through generous donations, over 50,000 local waste flowers have been sourced for The Archive in Cleveland.

“This extraordinary exhibition is a product of strong partnerships, and a passion for inclusive public art,” said Greg Peckham, Executive Director at LAND studio. “We are excited to share the dedication and collective effort that brings beauty, inspiration, and a sense of belonging to this shared space.” The Archive promises to captivate hearts, ignite imaginations, and inspire a renewed appreciation for the profound beauty found in the convergence of art, nature, and intellectual discovery. Visitors to Brett Hall will have an opportunity to engage with The Archive through guided tours, workshops, and special events.

The Archive is the 15th installment of See Also, an annual series of temporary artwork at Cleveland Public Library. This project is made possible through the support of the Lockwood Thompson Endowment Fund, LAND studio, mercer-WORKS, and a community of volunteers.

“If you’re a fan of contemporary art, design, or simply appreciate the beauty of nature, then don’t miss The Archive,” adds Charkosky.

The Archive will be on display through Spring 2024. It will be open during library hours: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, For more information about the exhibition and past See Also installations, visit cpl.org/exhibits.

(Photos courtesy of Cleveland Public Library)