On Sunday, September 18 2005, our annual San Diego chapter BBQ/picnic was held adjacent to the Niki de Saint Phalle's (1930-2002) Queen Califia's Magical Circle sculpture garden, located in the Iris Sankey Arboretum within Kit Carson Park in the city of Escondido. The county of San Diego is fortunate to have the largest American collection of her works, but this particular gem is this internationally acclaimed artist's only American sculpture garden and her last major international project.

Our members and their guests not only came to partake in our usual BBQ/picnic activities of networking and nibbling, but also to take part in an educational docent-led half-hour garden tour, courtesy of the City of Escondido. Picnic participants learned a lot about the artist herself, as well as the inspiration behind this brilliant mosaic sculpture garden's uniqueness. Once again, we are happy to report on another successful well-attended mix of chapter business with local charm.

Please note that all photos taken at the Queen Califia's Magical Circle sculpture garden are Copyright © Niki Charitable Art Foundation 2003.