July 15, 2012

Goodwindsinc, City of Germantown TN, Michelle East FIne Art





This past week I had the privilege of photographing at Goodwinds, a Germantown favorite for many years. Their specialty is landscaping, flowers, trees and plants. The family that owns the business is lovely. You will not meet a nicer couple.  I got a personal tour around the nursery after hours to do my photography. Above is the result of that photo shoot. 


It was a wonderful experience and I am so grateful to include Goodwinds Landscape and Garden Center into my Germantown project.


On a personal note, I had Goodwinds landscape my backyard several years ago and I have loved the magnolia trees and Japanese maples that I get to look at every day!


From their website:


Good Winds Landscape and Garden Center is both a design/build firm and retail garden center. The garden center is open year round with a wide variety of indoor and outdoor plant material. We have a knowledgeable staff available to answer any horticultural questions as well as designers available by appointment to discuss your garden improvements.  
 Design
InspirationWe are inspired by our clients, the unique characteristics that each site offers and the beauty of natural elements.
GoalOur goal is to develop creative solutions that seamlessly unite garden and architecture.
ProgramThe design program is developed from a collaborative effort between our clients and design staff, leading to respectful and long-lasting relationships.
ApproachThe approach is influenced by an appreciation for timeless and classical design.
 Build
MethodOur method of construction is built on principles of excellence, accuracy and precision.
MaterialsThe choice of material is hand selected from trusted and time tested sources.
CraftsmanshipOur craftsmanship is produced from a rigorous attention to detail in all disciplines of construction that we offer. 
 History


Goodwin’s Greenhouse was established in 1943 by Mr. Goodwin. After many years it has become a historic site and one of the oldest businesses to exist in Germantown,TN. From its inception Goodwin’s has become known not only for its plant material but also for its variety of animals from emus and cockatoos to pot-bellied pigs and peacocks. Eventually Goodwin’s developed a reputation as the “Germantown Zoo.” The memories and childhood stories that have been made as a result of this historic and lively business seem endless and always fun to hear.
However, Goodwin’s memories also contain the highs and lows of any business. Throughout its lifetime it has passed through the hands of several owners, each time not faring well with the change. Without an owner that could breathe new life into it, the old charm of the Greenhouse seemed to be losing its sense of place and slowly grew out of character with the established neighborhood around it.
At its lowest point, Paul Bruns of Germantown,TN. was finishing his Masters of Landscape Architecture from Louisiana State University. Also about this time the greenhouse had become available for purchase. With Paul’s timely study coming to a conclusion, he was poised to purchase the Greenhouse and restore its unique trademark to the city of Germantownand the Memphis area.
Paul purchased the business in 1999 after finishing school and returning to Germantown. After the purchase the name was slightly changed from Goodwin’s to Good Winds. Today the new business is full of life and very much integrated into the community. Though many of the animals are no longer part of Good Winds, the greenhouses have been cleaned up, organized and transformed into a charming year round garden center. A design/build landscape firm is also now a major part of the business.
Today a customer of Good Winds Garden Centercan expect to have a unique experience that will reminisce of the past while giving great hope to the future of this historic Greenhouse and its relationship to the community.


2238 Sunset Road
Germantown, Tn. 38138
Design Studio: (901) 758-1895
Garden Center: (901) 758-1185
Facsimile: (901) 758-1885


Till next time,

July 1, 2012

City of Germantown TN, New Work, Michelle East FIne Art

Hi All-
It is July 1, 2012 and we have 5 more months of this year. My year has flown by so far- how about yours! I am excited about all of the new and creative projects that I have begun this year.

My favorite and closest to my heart is the Germantown Series. These images will reflect the beauty and loveliness of my city. I hope to capture Germantown in a warm light with reflections of memories made here. Families raising their children and enjoying the park systems. Giving a nod to our rich history of horses and our annual horse show. Residents of Germantown, Tn are truly blessed.


Germantown, TN
Located near the Mississippi River along the historic trails of the Chickasaw Indians, Germantown offers its residents a safe, attractive and energetic community. The City of Germantown, its elected officials and its employees stand ready to provide assistance and quality services to you and are fully committed to making this a great place to live. Many opportunities exist for you to interact with local government and to participate in the civic activities and organizations within the city. Whether you are a long-time resident or new to the area, we believe you will share our sense of pride in our city. 



To learn more about the City of Germantown click here - City of Germantown


I am excited to be partnering with the Great Hall and Conference Center's manager, Chuck Porter to bring this exhibit to the public once it is complete.  My work on the Germantown Series will be displayed at The Great Hall and Conference Center in Germantown off of Germantown Parkway. I will keep you all updated on the progress!

The Great Hall and Conference Center


A sample of my work for the Germantown Series-





Till next time,