April 11 – October 31, 2025
This spring, a fantastical flock of giant bamboo birds lands at the Garden to enchant both the young and young at heart! Marvel at the majestic 20-foot wingspan of an Acorn Woodpecker in flight amongst the Garden’s oak trees; take photos with a friendly 10-foot-tall Western Bluebird; and delight in encounters with larger-than-life owls, quail, and more in every corner of the Garden.
The colossal sculptures up to 20 feet tall are made entirely from natural materials by Boston-based artist duo Donna Dodson and Andy Moerlein to highlight the beauty and diversity of California’s native birds and the ecosystems that support them. The bamboo sculptures all reflect the species that make their home in the grasslands, forests, and vineyards of the Garden.
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Public Programs
Artists in Residence
A 3-week residency offers an opportunity to connect with artists Donna Dodson and Andy Moerlein, also known as The Myth Makers, as they build site-specific birds for the Winged Wonders exhibition. During their stay, guests can watch the artists as they craft giant bamboo sculptures during open studio hours; sign up for a hands-on workshop to help build alongside the artists; or attend a slideshow and talk for a behind-the-scenes look at the artistic process and its connection to nature. This residency provides a unique opportunity to engage with this talented artistic duo while deepening your appreciation of the exhibition.
Open “Studio” Hours
Drop by and meet The Myth Makers as they bring their bird sculptures to life in the Garden. Watch the creative process in action and learn more about their unique artistic process.
Daily, March 24 – April 8, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Free for members and included with Garden admission for non-members. This is a drop-in program; there is no need to register in advance.
Discover the Art of Bamboo Building
Join this hands-on workshop to explore the strength and versatility of bamboo, guided by Artists in Residence Donna Dodson and Andy Moerlein of The Myth Makers. Learn the techniques they use to create their monumental bird sculptures.
Participants will use ancient skills, passed down to the artists from a Taiwanese bamboo master, to split bamboo poles into flexible strips. You’ll then use these materials to contribute to a new bamboo sculpture in the Garden or create your own garden trellis or bamboo piece to take home. No experience is needed—this workshop is open to all skill levels. Ages 12 and up can fully participate (younger children can team up with parents for a family project).
Throughout the workshop, the artists will share stories from their itinerant art career and offer insights into building a long-term artistic practice. Some materials and tools will be provided, including double-loop ties and machetes.
What to bring: Garden gloves, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Dress for the weather, as the workshop will be held outdoors.
Saturday, April 5, 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
$30 for members, $45 for non-members | Includes Garden admission. Please check in at the Garden’s Welcome Center.
Botanical Briefing: Meet The Myth Makers
Join us for a captivating slideshow presentation by the artists behind the Winged Wonders exhibition. Discover their inspiration for working with bamboo, explore their creative process, and learn how the natural world shapes their artistic vision.
About the Artists
The collaboration between Dodson and Moerlein stems from a shared passion for the wild. Dodson is inspired by the mysterious nature of birds, while Moerlein draws from significant events in the natural world. Their monumental, yet ephemeral works are crafted from natural materials and are site-specific, intended to last 3-5 years before fading, leaving a lasting impact on local communities.
Dodson holds a BA from Wellesley College, is a former Fulbright Scholar, and currently serves as a Scholar at the Brandeis University Women’s Studies Research Center and Fellow at the St. Botolph Club. Moerlein, a graduate of Dartmouth College and Cornell University, has exhibited his work nationally and internationally and is a member of the Boston Sculptors Gallery. Visit www.themythmakers.org.
Wednesday, April 2, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Free for members, $15 for non-members | Includes Garden admission. Please check in at the Garden’s Welcome Center.
Acoustic Sunsets
Acoustic Sunsets is back! The Garden extends its hours until 8:00 pm every Wednesday, from May 7 to October 29. Each week features a different live music set by Bay Area bands in the amphitheater. We welcome well-behaved leashed dogs, encourage picnics, and offer lawn games and other family-friendly activities like the chance to experience the Winged Wonders exhibition on a warm summer evening. Come together surrounded by the beauty of the Garden.
Weekly, Wednesday evenings, May 7 – Oct 29 (except for July 2 and Oct 1)
Free for members and included with Garden admission for non-members and AHS members. Please check in at the Garden’s Welcome Center.
Find the Flock: Winged Wonders Bird Walk
Join this interactive walk through the Garden to discover 12 striking bird sculptures from the Winged Wonders exhibit. Guided by a naturalist, you’ll explore the artistry and learn fascinating details about each bird species, their habitats, and conservation efforts, while also spotting their real-life counterparts. This family-friendly adventure invites all ages to engage in discovery and enjoy the thrill of finding each monumental bird. Binoculars welcomed but not required.
Saturday, April 12, 10:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. Led by Janet Bosshard, Madrone Audubon member and Bird Rescue Center board member
Saturday, May 3 10:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. Led by Dana Glei, volunteer and birding hike leader, Sugarloaf Ridge State Park
Saturday, June 14 10:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. Led by Garden Volunteer and naturalist, Carolyn Greene
Spring Melodies: A Nature-Inspired Guided Meditation Hike
Take a soul-nourishing journey blending nature, mindfulness, and the symphony of birds. This unique experience combines a meditative hike to the Garden’s highest point with the tranquil melodies of birdsong and the simplicity of mindful observation. Along the way, pause to admire the monumental bamboo bird sculptures of the Winged Wonders exhibition, listen to bird song, engage in mindful breathing, and reflect on the serene surroundings. Embrace the harmony of nature as you find your center and immerse yourself in the art of mindful connection to the natural world.
This program is held outdoors. Please dress accordingly and bring water.
May 17, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
$15 for members, $30 for non-members | Includes Garden admission. Please check in at the Garden’s Welcome Center.
This program is offered in collaboration with Sonoma Yoga, a community-centered studio with over 20 years of experience, offering a dynamic team of yoga, fitness, and meditation guides to support your practice.
Curator’s Seasonal Summer Walk
Take a deep dive into this season’s botanical highlights with the Garden’s Curator of Living Collections, Michael Wenzel. This walk will highlight bird-plant interactions in both the California and Asian Gardens in connection with the Winged Wonders exhibition.
Saturday, June 21, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Free for members, $15 for non-members | Includes Garden admission. Please check in at the Garden’s Welcome Center.
Sunday Funday: Summer 2025 at Sonoma Botanical Garden
Join us for Winged Wonders this spring and summer—a whimsical exhibit featuring giant bamboo birds! Sunday Funday is a playful, family-friendly program designed for kids of all ages to explore the beauty of the Garden and connect with nature. Enjoy face painting, arts & crafts, family yoga, lawn games, and more!
June 22, July 13 & August 10, 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Free for members, $15 for non-members | Includes Garden admission. Please check in at the Garden’s Welcome Center. This is a drop-in program; there is no need to register in advance.