What is a garden? Ming Fay (1943–2025) explored this question by softening the boundaries between the natural and the human-made, the familiar and the fantastical. In Fay’s imagined landscapes, we encounter oversized sculptures of fruits, seeds, shells, and hybrid plants drawn from his boundless imagination. These utopian environments invite us to see gardens as spaces for connection, memory, and unrestrained artistic creativity.
At once playful and contemplative, “Ming Fay: Edge of the Garden” creates a space of wonder—encouraging us to look at the world around us with fresh eyes. Fay’s papier-mâché, bronze, and ceramic sculptures surprise and delight through unexpected pairings and exaggerated scale. Rooted in recognizable forms, scents, and symbols, they conjure new meanings and emotional associations.
On view from June 26 to September 21, 2025, “Ming Fay: Edge of the Garden” invites visitors to step away from the city and marvel at the extraordinary beauty of a maple seed twirler, a ripe cherry, or a crooked wishbone—small wonders that spark memory and imagination.
This exhibition has been two years in the making, and the team at the
@gardnermuseum spent more than two weeks bringing it to life. There are more than 100 sculptures in addition to archival material, sketches and paintings. We hope you’ll join us in Boston this summer to experience this spectacular show.
Curated by Gabrielle Niu
@art.with.me.g
Exhibition design by
@amcpstudio
Thank you to Caitlin Lowrie, Amanda Venezia, Tania Rodriguez, Jimmy Hull, Nico Hasko, Tiffany York, Ellen Promise, Riley Thomas, Erika Perez, Helina Almonte, Scott Benson, Doug Weathersby, Matt D, Sylvia Hickman, Pieranna Cavalchini, Katrina Wilson, Maritza Gutierrez, and Amanda Guerra for all your help with this beautiful installation!
Image: Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston.