Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Blvd.
(314) 577-9400, http://www.mobot.org/

Niki exhibition: Apr. 27-Oct. 31, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
"Niki Nights": Thursdays, May-September, 5 to 9 p.m.

Walking through the Missouri Botanical Garden a few days ago, I was amazed by the larger-than-life, sparkling mosaic sculptures by Niki de Saint Phalle. No one would expect to see this kind of exhibit in a formal garden, but walls couldn't possibly contain the sculptures.

Children were clambering on each of the two Guardian Lions. It brightened my day to hear their laughter in the air. Then I turned a corner and, WOW, there was La Cabeza (The Head). Now I see why Niki called her mosaic pieces M&M's. La Cabeza and all of the sculptures are covered in a mixture of brightly-colored ceramic tiles, glass, mirrors and polished stones. The sculptures draw children (and adults) as effectively as candy!

At La Cabeza, children were touching the outside, and then going inside the head to the meditation room which is lined with mirrors. Blue stars seem to glide on the ceiling. The children didn't meditate, but boy did they love sticking their hands and feet through the teeth, making it look as if the skull had consumed them! Some were overheard saying, "Let's be its conscience." Now that is profound!

Niki isn't only for children. All women of the world will appreciate her "nanas" (French for the word "babe" or "chick"). They are wonderfully vibrant and robust women. Sports lovers and musicians will be amazed by Niki's Black Heroes series, featuring St. Louis native Miles Davis and several inspiring athletes.

At night, the sculptures take on a completely different, magical look. Fire jugglers and sno-cones (both adult and child versions) make "Niki Nights" on Thursdays a really fun time in the Garden. Niki is not to be missed!

Visit http://www.mobot.org/events/NIKI/Niki.asp for more info on Niki and "Niki Nights."

-Mary Dunger, Special Exhibits Assistant