Linnaeus Statue and the Outdoor Classroom Tour
A 6'5" full figure bronze sculpture of Carl Linnaeus created by Tulsa sculptor Rosalind Cook greets visitors at the center of the Grand Pavilion. It is made of bronze and weighs over 1,000 pounds.
Linnaeus is holding Gaillardia (Oklahoma's state wildflower) and the book in his hand illustrates the "Twin Flower" or "Linnaeus Boreallis", which was named for him. Look closely and you will find a lady bug on one of the flowers.
Here, 4th-9th grade students from the Zion Home Study Group and their teacher gather around the statue of Carl.
Set into the wall behind the statue are ten ceramic tiles by Tulsa artist Cynthia Harris, each depicting a different flower.
Adjoining the statue is a walkway into the outdoor classroom area. This area overlooks much of the Linnaeus Garden and is shaded by Eastern Red Cedars that are almost 100 years old.
The walls overlooking the Garden are designed to also serve as seating areas for outdoor lectures and demonstrations.
Paving, walkways, and retaining walls throughout the statue and classroom area were provided by PaveStone Company.
The Linnaeus statue and the outdoor classroom occupy the highest points in the Garden. This provides great views of the Boulder Garden and Water Garden, as well as the Greenhouse and Learning Center structures.
An added attraction is the fact that a cool breeze usually moves through the trees during the summer.
A gradually sloping walkway extends from the far end of the outdoor classroom down through the Main Garden and provides access to the remainder of the Garden.
Read more about the Linnaeus Statue and Outdoor Classroom in our Feature Article