New and inspiring gardens are being created in our time. They are still evolving creatively. My own experience of our visual and performance arts is that they are developing new forms, but they have left the common public behind. Remember the art piece of a banana duct-taped to a wall that sold for $120,000 - and he produced more than one as it was a popular sale. There are lots of articles defending and criticizing the piece - a demonstration of my point.
On the side of landscape design as art, New York City's Little Island has opened. It was designed by landscape architect Signe Nielsen. You can download a 40 minute tour of the landscape HERE. This is a garden built on what once was Pier 54 on the Hudson River. Hurricane Sandy did significant damage prohibiting use as an outdoor summer venue. It has two little bridges to reach it as it stands above the water on white pillars.
The idea of rejuvenation was envisioned in 2013 by Barry Diller:
“What was in my mind was to build something for the people of New York and for anyone who visits—a space that on first sight was dazzling, and upon use made people happy.” ~Barry Diller
"The lifted corners of the pier create distinct microclimates that reveal themselves through color, texture, light and shadow. Whether meandering along paths or taking alternate routes of stairs or boulders scrambles, the eye is at times directed downward to the rich palette of plants or outwards to spectacular views of the city and harbor. Little Island will be a maritime botanic garden with 35 species of trees, 65 species of shrubs, and 270 varieties of grasses, perennials, vines, and bulbs, many of which have been selected for their fragrance and attractiveness to birds and pollinators. The landscape is one of sweeping swaths of textures and seasonally calibrated color themes punctuated by magnificent trees.” ~Signe Nielsen
The photo gallery of progress is HERE. The New York Times article, written May 20th, is extensive, comparing the garden to English garden follies. The author says this will be love at first sight and the Island Garden will be mobbed (in a good way). A very happy moment during these times.
It is exciting that this is something new and bold in the garden realm. I hope this is a trend.
And what did I experience at Toronto Botanical Garden Saturday morning? This was a group making a video. Does anyone know the origin of the traditional outfits?
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