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Photo: Swedish Institute
2007 marks the 300th anniversary of the birth of one of the world’s most famous natural scientists, namely Swedish botanist, naturalist and zoologist Carolus Linnaeus.
“Linnaeus who?” you may ask. Professor Anne-Charlotte Harvey, founding member of the Center, explains:
“That’s just it - It’s precisely because Linnaeus, the father of natural science worldwide, is still not widely known in the USA today that the Swedish Center is especially happy to introduce him to San Diego with this celebration,” adding “He is also an amazing man to introduce - he really knows all about the birds and the bees!”
The varied and entertaining program will include a lighthearted collage of Linnaeus’ sage and spicy advice for a healthy and fruitful life, interwoven with 18th century songs. Roland Thorstensson, professor of Scandinavian Studies at Gustavus Adolphus College, and photographer Anders Björling will take the audience along on their 2006 journey in the footsteps of a young and adventurous Linnaeus, from Uppsala to the Arctic Circle and the wilderness beyond. In addition, children from the Swedish School in San Diego will present a tribute of Swedish flower songs.
The program will be followed by a reception where wine and other refreshments will be served.
Linnaeus, sometimes called The King of Flowers, set out to list and order the whole of creation. He personally described, named, and classified thousands of plants, animals, and minerals around the world. He showed that all human beings are a single animal species: Homo sapiens, and also taught the world to value the knowledge of nature.
This event is made possible through grants from the Swedish Council of America and Gustav V Lodge, Vasa Order of America.
Where? Ulla Lotta Wiik Auditorium, in the brand new College of Arts and Letters building at San Diego State University.
When? Sunday September 23 at 2 p.m.
Tickets and information: For purchase of tickets, contact the Consulate of Sweden via phone at (619) 233-1106, or email at sandiego@consulateofsweden.org
Parking is included.
Erik Johansson