Principles of Design #7

Principle #7   display objects of interest and art – “focal points”

The posting today is one of the series titled:

                               Principles of Design in use at Gardens at Waters East.

All ten (10) design principles are listed in an outline form which can be located on the November 14, 2010 posting.  Refer back to that date for the complete list of the guiding ideas used to develop and to bring unity throughout the many gardens.

There are a wide variety of objects that can be used in the garden as “focal points”.  The list is limited only by the gardener’s imagination.  Is there a sculpture that interest you, or a decorative pot or plant you have come across in a garden center, or a large rock, or a garden bench, or even an old chair in your garage, or broken pottery, etc. etc.?  On and on the list can go.  Whether the item is some well-made piece with substantial cost involved, or a whimsical piece you created as “home grown art”, or something you found in the neighbor’s junk;  if it is “you”, think about using it in your garden to make your garden space all the more personal and interesting.  The only caution, don’t over do it.  If there is too much to see, one sees nothing.

The following photos show a number of “focal points” found around the property used in the Gardens at Waters East.  Each one has its own space and “staging” allowing it be seen as a special piece and not be overpowered by other objects.

It is important to remember that “focal points” don’t have to be objects.  Certain unique species or forms of plants, bushes, or trees in the garden, are and should be seen as “focal points” too.  Give them the special “staging” they need.  Placement, framing, elevation, can all be used to accent a “focal point” whether it is an object or a living specimen.  The sculptured Scotch Pine used as a “Cloud Tree” in the Asian Fountain Garden (seen in previous photo postings) is a great example of a plant being a “focal point”.

 Buddha head in Asian Fountain Garden

nymph stone pot

antique pedestal in Main Entry Garden area

fountain head

smiling face tucked in among the juniper and sedum

broken clay pot in the Zen Garden

feet as "whimsy" sculpture near a decorative pot in Rain Garden

"viewing stone"

often seen in Asian gardens elevated for closer viewing

giving special notice and honor to a rock of importance or interest

candle lanterns

There are other "focal points" used in the Gardens at Waters East.

Those will be shown in an upcoming posting regarding found and created art for the garden.

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