I am grateful to God for using the camera to open my eyes to the beauty of His amazing Creation. And what better place to see creation at its finest than the Dubuque Arboretum? It truly has become my "Happy Place,” a place I look forward to coming to, a place I enjoy walking through and absorbing the beauty all around. 

There is always something new to capture my eye, followed by my camera lens. Often it is not until I get home and view the photos on my computer screen that I really see the intricate design detail in the flower or insect. 

I love to see beauty God has created and then present it to you. Often, I will step back to show you the context of a recent find so you too can find it in the Gardens. 

If it isn’t already, I hope the Arboretum becomes your “Happy Place” too.

-DEB LOVETT

I have long been a fan of public gardens. Public gardens allow everyone to enjoy the beauty and complexity of nature. For me, time spent in a garden is time spent relaxing and de-stressing. It’s an opportunity to slow down and appreciate my surroundings.

As a photographer, the Arboretum challenges me to perceive and understand; i.e., to see the ever-changing environment in the gardens. The plants, the trees, the sounds and smells, the colors, all of them forever changing.

I encourage you to visit the Arboretum to relax and see the beautiful gardens for yourself.

-SAM FENSTERMACHER