The New College Institute is currently showcasing a Smithsonian Gardens and Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibit entitled “Pollination Investigation,” a poster exhibition that explores the who, what, when, where, why, and how of pollination by interpreting the unique relationship between pollinators and flowers. The exhibit will be on display in the lobby of New College Institute’s Baldwin Building from June 1 through August 31.
Nearly 90 percent of flowering plants rely on approximately 200,000 species of animal pollinators for fertilization. “Pollination Investigation” showcases how pollinators are vital for a strong ecosystem as most plants need their help to fertilize flowers and reproduce. The exhibit features seven “pollinator profiles” for bees, beetles, butterflies, hummingbirds, flies, moths, and wind (along with special references to bats and water). Using a field-journal theme, each profile describes the pollinators’ favorite flowers based on floral characteristics encouraging exploration into flower shape, color, scent, and more. The set of 14 posters is bilingual (English and Spanish) and designed to educate and inspire people to explore the natural world looking at flowers and insects.
“Pollination Investigation” is distributed at no cost to schools, libraries, museums and community organizations. It was created by Smithsonian Gardens in collaboration with the National Museum of Natural History and made available by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service. It is funded in part by the Smithsonian Women’s Committee.
