Landscape Design Enhances Front Yard at the Burchfield Penney

The Burchfield Penney Art Center at SUNY Buffalo State has broken ground on a transformational landscaping project designed to enhance its Front Yard and provide greater accessibility to the center's Elmwood façade. The project is due for completion by mid-June, in time for the Burchfield Penney’s 50th Anniversary Art Auction and Gala on June 18.

“Completing the landscaping of the Front Yard has been a goal of the Burchfield Penney since the outdoor media gallery opened in 2013,” said Anthony Bannon, executive director of the Burchfield Penney. “The addition of benches and pathways will add to the comfort for visitors to the Front Yard as well as passersby. The environment encourages the visitor to linger for the gentle sound environment from the 6.1 channel surround sound and the 10,000 lumen image after dark.”

Timothy Richley, renowned landscape designer with four decades of experience in Western New York, has created an environment which will connect the Burchfield Penney and Buffalo State to the community.

“The landscape provides a connection to the community,” said Richley. “It is a visual gateway which will give the effect of looking at the Burchfield Penney through a watercolor painting.”

A combination of perennials and annuals reflective of the palette of Charles Burchfield highlight the garden, and the landscape includes a dominant selection of plants native to Western New York.

“The landscape will evolve throughout the seasons,” added Richley. “The seasonal blooms will add interest and color all year round.”

“The space, we hope, will encourage a new social and art space within the Museum District where visitors may come to picnic or play while in the company of vigorous contemporary electronic art, a great tradition and trademark of culture in Western New York,” added Bannon.

Outdoor events are planned for the Front Yard on M&T Second Fridays in August and September.