From cave paintings and ornate sculpture to tire crowns and bottle trees, gardens have a long and storied history of ornamentation. Throughout time stone figures of saints or mythic warriors and wild beasts have been placed as protective guardians of the garden and its inhabitants. Statues and monuments honored important figures in history and the world’s religions.
Bottle trees, sometimes called the “poor man’s stained glass,” were once placed in gardens to fend off evil. It was commonly believed that malevolent spirits were attracted to the colorful glass; once trapped inside the bottles, these spirits were then destroyed by the morning sun. This is a contemporary take on this folk tradition created by my artist friend David Perry. I snapped this on a sunny day last September…you remember sun don’t you?
Selecting a gift of garden ornament can be a tricky proposition. Garden art is highly personal. The right piece of garden art can add age, structure and a unique sense of place. On the other hand, one person’s treasured vintage gnome is another’s idea of the very worst garden blight. Me? I love a good piece of rusty industrial waste. Placed ironically with funky succulents (Aloe polyphylla) that repeat their form really sets my garden gears turning!!!
For those looking for a “softer” look, Tuffits – a line of concrete stepping stones in the shape of vintage pillows may be just the thing. I once manufactured these lovelies in my basement; today they can be found here.
Tips for placing garden art:
- The ornament will draw attention; use its placement to highlight a garden feature or distract from an unsightly view.
- Select art that reflects your garden’s personality: Asian Zen, elegant sophistication or whimsical cheek.
- If you plan to leave your piece outside throughout the year choose a material appropriate for your climate.
- More is not always better; it’s a fine line between a collection and clutter.
Whether you have dignified lions guarding your doorway or a whimsical sprite with pointed boots, a luminous reflective gazing ball or a humble bottle tree – art and ornament adds a layer of personality and expression to any garden. Stop by your local independent nursery during this slow time of the horticultural year. In addition to various and sundry birdbaths, fountains and stepping stones, many stock unique, one-of-a-kind garden features crafted by local artists.
I’m afraid vintage gnomes just have to find you.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
I think choosing garden art as a gift is a lot safer than indoor art. One can always find a nook somewhere to show just about anything off to advantage. No matter how kitsch, things just look better in an outdoor setting. The things you feature here I find very appealing…well, no so sure about the gnome.
I wish people would give me this kind of stuff. I can always find a hiding place if need be, but imagine I could work anything in based on the diversity of garden rooms in our garden. Great post!
.-= compostinmyshoe´s last blog ..My First Poinsettia =-.
Hello i read your blog often and wanted to say all the best for the New Year!
why thank you very much…and the same to you.