On my recent trip to the Columbus, Ohio, Topiary Park was another sight I did not want to miss. The Topiary Garden is located on the original site of The Ohio School for the Deaf. The school burned down in 1981 at which point the grounds of the school became unkept and unsightly. James Mason was the idea man behind recreating the famous 1887 French post impressionist painting by George Seuart, A Sunday Afternoon on the Isle of La Grande Jatte, using topiaries. Mason referred to it as ” nature mimicking art. ” This famous painting shows people leisurely enjoying the park on an island by the River Seine, in Paris, France. The original painting , which is 7 feet by 10 feet in size, now hangs in The Art Institute in Chicago. The reinterpretation of the painting into topiaries, was sculpted in 1989. It has since been featured in magazines, newspapers, a BBC film and has won several awards.
To see this unbelievable unique exhibit in person was mind-blowing and left me in awe of its beauty, of James Mason, who had the idea, and all the planning and work that went to making it come true!! Simply put, the topiary figures are comprised of yews, the figure’s frames are made of 5/8 inch bronze and set in 18 inches of concrete. Hills and a small pond were also added for the display. Plus, the topiaries, as well as the park’s flowers and gardens , have been well maintained since 1989 by volunteers !!!! Here come the photos…..
Plant Smiles, Grow Laughter, Harvest Love ( author unknown)
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Jeannie's Travel Addiction 