VERO BEACH, FL – June 17, 2024 – Last year, Master Balancer Adam Conard, known as ZOTO, introduced the ancient art of stone balancing to McKee Botanical Garden with his “Playing with Gravity” exhibit, captivating visitors of all ages. This summer, ZOTO returns with an all-new exhibit, “Beyond the Ordinary,” on display from July 9 through September 8.
The ancient art of stone balancing is truly a “beyond the ordinary” art form, and ZOTO elevates this concept to new heights. Drawing inspiration from the garden’s extraordinary founders, Arthur McKee and Waldo Sexton, ZOTO incorporates unique, never-before-balanced objects into his pieces, some of which have been touched by the founders themselves.
ZOTO invites you to connect with these pieces and reflect on how, as the world spins at 1,000 MPH, balance and harmony are maintained. This exhibit serves as a metaphor for discovering and recognizing the balance within yourself and to believe in your own ability to go beyond the ordinary.
Complementing the “Beyond the Ordinary” exhibit, ZOTO has created paintings inspired by the exhibit’s theme, which will be displayed in the historic Hall of Giants. ZOTO’s paintings, which he describes as Classical Surrealism, blend classical painting techniques with contemporary surrealism to produce works of profound meaning. These original paintings are created using unique methods with handmade oil paints by Williamsburg.
For those interested in learning more about stone balancing, ZOTO will host a special event on Saturday, August 3, from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm in the Royal Palm Grove at McKee Botanical Garden. Stone balancing, one of the oldest art forms, dates back to prehistoric times, predating 2D cave paintings. While stone stacking is more common, master-level stone balancing is a rare art form. During this event, ZOTO will explain the differences between rock stacking and stone balancing, briefly discuss the history of the art form, and share how he began his journey. The demonstration will cover techniques such as setting a base, selecting stones, visualizing balance points, and identifying equilibrium lines. Following the demonstration, guests will have the opportunity to participate in a hands-on session with smaller stones, where ZOTO will provide individual guidance. Attendees are advised to bring a water bottle, wear sneakers or closed-toe shoes, and bring bug spray.
For more information about ZOTO and his art, please visit ZOTOART.com.
McKee Botanical Garden is located at 350 US Highway 1, Vero Beach, FL 32962. Garden hours are Tuesday – Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday from 12 pm to 5 pm. The last admission is at 4:00 pm, and the Children’s Garden closes at 4:30 pm.
Admission: $15 for adults, $13 for seniors (65+) and youth (13-17), $10 for children (2-12). McKee members and children under 2 are free.
