Dr. Joel M. Hoffman, Executive Director of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, is pleased to announce the promotion of Ian Simpkins to Deputy Director for Horticulture and Agriculture for the estate.
Ian Simpkins hold a bachelor’s degree in horticulture for North Carolina State University, and his tenure in horticulture extends more than 20 years. He is a recipient of the Chanticleer Foundation and JC Raulston Fellowships, and is currently Vice Chair of the Historic Landscapes Section of the American Public Gardens Association and serves on the Horticulture Advisory Committee of The Kampong, National Tropical Botanic Garden.
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a National Historic Landmark that preserves the Miami estate of agriculturist industrialist James Deering. The estate includes a main house and 10 acres of formal gardens, extensive bayfront mangroves, and a rockland hammock. “Ian’s appointment as Deputy Director for Horticulture and Urban Agriculture reflects the importance of our formal gardens, natural areas, and living collection to the mission of Vizcaya,” says Hoffman. “We are also revitalizing our significant agricultural history by incorporating Vizcaya Village, where produce and livestock were raised to support the estate, into the visitor experience. “
Ian previously served as Chief Horticulturist for Vizcaya Museum and Gardens beginning in 2007. Prior to joining Vizcaya, he held the position of Executive Director at Shofuso Japanese House and Garden in Philadelphia. Ian has also served on the boards of the Tropical Arborist Guild and Greater Philadelphia Gardens.
ABOUT VIZCAYA MUSEUM AND GARDENS:
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a National Historic Landmark that preserves the Miami estate of agricultural industrialist James Deering to engage our community and its visitors in learning through the arts, history and the environment. Built between 1914 and 1922, Vizcaya is one of the most intact remaining examples from this era in United States history, when the nation’s most successful entrepreneurs built lavish estates inspired by the stately homes of Europe.
Vizcaya features a Main House, 10 acres of formal gardens, a rockland hammock (native forest), mangrove shore, the Vizcaya Café and Shop presented by A Joy Wallace Catering, Design and Special Events, and a historic village that will be restored for additional venues for programs and community outreach. Located at 3251 South Miami Avenue, between Brickell Avenue and Coconut Grove, Vizcaya is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. except Tuesdays, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
