Dr. Benyshek grew up with gardeners, helping her parents and grandmother in their flower and vegetable gardens. Her grandmother studied horticulture at the University of Colorado in Boulder in the 1920s. Benyshek's fascination with the natural world extended into studies of biology, zoology, botany, and field ecology. For 25 years, Benyshek lived in the Cascade Mountains. on acreage, where she created a large garden that included an 18' waterfall and a pond near the front door. In 2022, Benyshek and her son moved to Wichita, Kansas. She wanted to return to the active, supportive art community in Wichita. OpenStudios selected Benyshek as the artist in residence for Botanica Gardens. Benyshek's son is in constant pain, anticipating two surgeries, her son asked her to plant a garden around their new home so that he could sit outside amidst nature. These gardens served the source of inspiration for this series of drawings and watercolor paintings, Into the Garden. As the caregiver for her disabled son, painting outside gives the artist a moment of respite yet she is nearby to help if needed. In the morning, she takes a cup of coffee outside, to listen to the birds, enjoy beauty, see the cycles of nature turning. A certain sunbeam at a certain angle shines on the garden and the artist is inspired to paint. Or she goes outside in the evening, to watch a sunset and see the stars emerge, again finding inspiration in the night garden. Chalk pastel, watercolor, and ink on paper, these artworks inspired the Cosmic Spirits series and also a book of poetry. Into the Garden will be exhibited at Reuben Saunders Gallery, Wichita, KS, opening First Friday, April 4, 2025. The story of this work will be shared at an art/lecture/research presentation at Harvester Arts, April 11, 2025. You and your guests are invited to attend.