Pratt ginkgo on Grounds
As the leaves begin to change in autumn, the Pratt ginkgo on the west side of the Rotunda turns a deep gold, lending the UVA Grounds a natural air of majesty while simultaneously adding to its rich history. The tree was planted in honor of William Pratt, superintendent of buildings and grounds on the eve of the Civil War. The ginkgo, imperial in its own right, was also the University’s first memorial tree, paving the way for a commemorative tradition that plants a tree in remembrance of deceased alumni and faculty.
“In fall, the leaves come down all at once like golden coins from this Civil War era tree.”—Cathy Clary
Les Yeux du Monde
Stepping into Les Yeux du Monde, a contemporary art gallery owned by art dealer Lyn Bolen Warren and her husband, painter Russ Warren, one immediately understands the meaning of its name: the eyes of the world. The gallery and studio space northeast of Charlottesville inspires its visitors, and provides a spectacular view into the artistic landscape (and, originally, the views from Lyn’s home, where she’d host artist receptions prior to opening the gallery). The new structure, which opened in 2009 after the business spent many years in downtown Charlottesville, was designed by architect WG Clark and exhibits many of his trademark elements—the use of concrete, the diffusion of light, the structure’s position in an unusual setting.
“Any WG Clark project: Les Yeux du Monde, UVA’s school of architecture, his own residence. These lovely, modern buildings composed of concrete, steel, and glass are a welcome contrast to the ever-present red brick and white columns of our area. An added bonus of Les Yeux du Monde is the beauty of the art that lies within.”—Andrea Hubbell
Yulan magnolia on Grounds
This remarkably grand Yulan magnolia sits on the northeast walkway leading toward UVA’s Rotunda—and has since around 1910. Sit on the bench underneath it in early spring, when you can look up and find yourself surrounded by hundreds of delicate, ivory-colored blooms.
“When its blooms sneak under spring frosts in March or April, this magnificent specimen makes a heavenly sitting spot.”—Cathy Clary