Thursday, 12/23/21
This week we’re giving updates on our front garden spaces.
Left side garden: The drywell was installed! Water and moisture have been a challenge for years in our basement. We’ve often experienced some flooding that threatens to endanger collection objects. With this renovation we took many measures to ensure that water stays out of the building. With special floor applications, a couple of sump pumps, and finally with this drywell. For those who are not familiar, a drywell is a chamber constructed in the ground in order to aid with drainage. You can learn more about drywells here: https://www.americangeosciences.org/geoscience-currents/dry-wells-stormwater-management
Image from: https://www.americangeosciences.org/sites/default/files/Fig%201%20-%20Dry%20Well%20New.png
Image of the hole dug for the drywall in the left side garden
Unfortunately, in the process of installing this drywell the front left garden had to be dug up. Having a drywell also limits the type of planting we can have in that area. But, don’t despair! We’re working with a museum member who is also a landscape architect to dream up some design concepts. With such limited indoor and outdoor space, we want all our spaces to be as flexible as possible. A special shout out to the Garden Club who has been volunteering their time for many years helping us keep up the front garden. We’re excited to include them in the plans as soon as appropriate.
Right side garden: If you’ve been to the Museum lately, you’ll likely have noticed the Somernova Art Gallery installation. This is a unique project that promotes local artists in an outdoor venue. There are 10 frames up throughout the City that can be found at Somernova, Bow Market, Somerville Media Center, and the art house. With the pandemic still lingering its become so important to be creative with our programming. The Somernova Art Project allows us to promote student and local artists as well as share images from current and upcoming exhibitions with the public. We’re in the process of updating artwork as we speak!
You might also have noticed the beginnings of an Elfland archeological site. The elves and humans behind Elfland will be using this space over the winter to help foster the creativity of our local community. Be sure to keep checking it out as it grows! Learn more: https://www.instagram.com/elfland.somerville/
Don’t forget we have lots of great last minute holiday gifts in our merchandise shop. The Museum will be open today from 2-7pm.
Lastly, we wish everyone a very happy holiday season!