The Seduction of Outdoor Sculptures, Screens and Installations
Why keep your passion for art inside? Introduce it to your backyard to build your own stunning open-air gallery
You could become an instant art curator in your own backyard, using larger-than-life sculptures and screens to create a talking point and invoke a mood.
When talking to a landscape or design firm, simply suggest outdoor elements that catch your eye such as pebbles, driftwood, plants or ocean waves. This can then be used as inspiration for art in your garden zone. Floral motifs are popular options, but bespoke works will appeal to the more daring. Here are some great examples…
When talking to a landscape or design firm, simply suggest outdoor elements that catch your eye such as pebbles, driftwood, plants or ocean waves. This can then be used as inspiration for art in your garden zone. Floral motifs are popular options, but bespoke works will appeal to the more daring. Here are some great examples…
Giant flora. In this compact garden bed, large trees weren’t suitable as there wasn’t enough room for the roots. However, this leaf-shaped sculpture is a perfect solution. Made of industrial steel, the tactile work has a layer of rust that creates a protective barrier, making sure there’s minimal deterioration over time.
Tropical love. This garden, designed by Rolling Stone Landscapes, features a full-figure sculpture, which gives the outdoor bathing zone a strong end point. Throughout the garden, the sculpture, fixtures and planting work together to create a tropical sanctuary. All that’s missing is a full-time yoga instructor!
‘Spoon’ bath: Agape
‘Spoon’ bath: Agape
Designer letterbox. Produced by Sustainable Garden Design Perth, this sculptural letterbox in Corten rusted steel gives the Perth home a real wow factor. The work is a nod to the Australian natives that surround the property and, just like the swaying trees, the letterbox delights in changes of pattern and colour throughout the day.
Circle design. A side path is often treated as an afterthought in a renovation, but this zone proves it shouldn’t be dismissed. The circular steel screen mimics a bubbling pool and works as a decorative back rest. To complete the look, further intricate screens on both sides were added, concealing the dated lattice fence behind.
Hanging rock garden. Simple and sturdy, this wooden beam works as a natural frame – its solid, rustic feel juxtaposes the delicate installation of objects attached to it. The pebbles look like they’re floating in mid-air, while the cascading plants add colour and texture. Flexibility is key here – different plants can be added or removed, depending on the season.
Eastern influence. This expansive backyard has been transformed into a stunning Zen-influenced garden. The impressive water feature works as a visual end point, and the entertaining area is positioned close by so the owners and their guests can appreciate the soothing sounds of water running.
Wall art. Once upon a time, bespoke artworks were only hung on interior walls but no longer. This screen of rusted steel adds impact and drama to a rendered outdoor wall. While many companies have a range of designs on offer, you can request your own personalised screen to use as art. Simply draw inspiration from the great outdoors – plant types from bamboo to kangaroo grass are popular examples.
Sculptural lighting. This curvaceous sculpture adds decoration to the minimalist pool area, and after dark it also provides soft illumination. Created by C.O.S Design, it was well positioned to receive minimal splash, and the pebble base is easy to maintain.
Laser-cut screen. This laser-cut screen is more than just a floral artwork – it’s also a handy privacy panel that demarcates the porch and the garden. The floral motif, meanwhile, mimics the blossoming trees. Designed by Boodle Concepts in Melbourne, the screen also harmonises with the wrought-iron detail on the terrace.
Timber pattern. Vertical slats on a smoothly rendered wall are simple and inexpensive but oh-so striking! The series of giant bromeliads (Alcantarea imperialis) gives the space colour and texture, while the pebble pots introduce another natural element to the zone. As a finishing touch, low-voltage uplights are perfectly lined up to add extra impact after dark.
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