From the moment that I drove from the airport to the resort where my work conference was being held, I had a feeling that Myrtle Beach was not going to be for me. There were neon lights, chains, outlets and family attractions in every direction, which are not my typical preferences in a vacation destination. With one weekend to explore, I was directed by a colleague to make the drive over to Brookgreen Gardens that proved to be a relaxing and beautiful highlight of my trip.
Brookgreen Gardens is part nature preserve, part sculpture garden, butterfly habitat, art gallery, walking trail, and zoo. Spanning 9,100 acres, I only experienced a small section on the 100 degree day I visited, which was unfortunate since the $15 admission ticket would have been good for a full week. On the plus side, I practically had the entire place to myself.
Two Ring-Necks, Grainger McCoy (b. 1947)
Basswood, metal, glass, and oil paint, 1988
At the end, I left coastal South Carolina feeling that there was beauty beyond the crowds and also had a chance to explore a couple small fishing villages over the North Carolina border.