Glenstone Museum in Potomac, Maryland, is showcasing its distinctive seasonal floral installation on Jeff Koons’s "Split-Rocker," a 37-foot-tall sculpture prominently situated on a hill within the museum grounds. The artwork features the dual heads of toy rocking figures—a horse and a dinosaur—and is covered each spring with more than 24,000 flowers that remain in bloom from May through October.
The intricate planting process marked its latest iteration over the course of seven days this year, as part of the museum’s annual tradition. Chris Ryan, the horticulturist responsible for the installation, explained that the team carefully selects plant varieties each season based on their performance in specific areas of the sculpture. “We learn every year,” he said, highlighting the ongoing effort to balance aesthetic appeal with plant survivability in the sculpture’s unique environment.
The floral display has become a signature element of the museum’s landscape, offering visitors a dynamic and evolving experience alongside the contemporary art collection. This year’s installation coincides with Glenstone’s 20th anniversary celebrations, underscoring its commitment to integrating nature and art in an immersive setting.
Glenstone remains open to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday through Sunday, inviting guests to view the blooming "Split-Rocker" and explore its broader exhibitions.
