It makes so much sense that the word paradise stems from a word describing an enclosed garden…I grew up in an otherworldly garden on a mountain . In winter it swirled with low-hung clouds, in summer it baked in the Australian heat and was awash with scent from eucalyptus , cistus, roses , lavender and so much more.
Like you, I came to Hepworth later than many :: only a couple of months ago , in fact. But her garden will very much inspire (along with Edna Walling) a new one I have begun, in a similar coastal situation (but on the other side of the planet).
I so loved this and need to re-read it as a lot to consider. I have a ‘Thinking Log’ in the garden (actually in the hen run) where I often sit and enjoy the filtered light through the leaves, and just enjoy the moment. I thought I was weird not being blown away by the Alhambra (I did visit years ago) so rather encouraging to hear another supportive voice. Gardens that touch me most are by no means always the smartest but instead the personal ones that are created by people who care about them. The spirit of place is as much about the owner and is I think almost impossible to keep once the garden moves on to a new owner
Sitting in filtered light under the trees is a great way to up your dose of infrared light. Some people believe we are suffering badly for lack of enough of it. Sit lots!
It makes so much sense that the word paradise stems from a word describing an enclosed garden…I grew up in an otherworldly garden on a mountain . In winter it swirled with low-hung clouds, in summer it baked in the Australian heat and was awash with scent from eucalyptus , cistus, roses , lavender and so much more.
Like you, I came to Hepworth later than many :: only a couple of months ago , in fact. But her garden will very much inspire (along with Edna Walling) a new one I have begun, in a similar coastal situation (but on the other side of the planet).
Here’s what I wrote of my “conversion”….
https://indiaflint.substack.com/p/the-hepworth-museum
I wrote a book called Heaven is Garden - I touched on those same thoughts. She cites some wonderful gardens! I want to experience them all.
Then you must, as soon as you can.
I am listening to you Anne!
However - those wouldn't necessarily be the gardens which do it for me. But then - I'm difficult. Hepworth though, yes.
I love that you are difficult! 😊
This made me smile. Difficult, while difficult to be around sometimes, is true.
That’s very good to know. Thank you.
All I can say is YES ! Or perhaps Amen !
Thanks, Paul.
Oh wonderful.
Funny…I was thinking Wordsworth as I read…and then there he was, with just the right allusion.
Loved this.
I so loved this and need to re-read it as a lot to consider. I have a ‘Thinking Log’ in the garden (actually in the hen run) where I often sit and enjoy the filtered light through the leaves, and just enjoy the moment. I thought I was weird not being blown away by the Alhambra (I did visit years ago) so rather encouraging to hear another supportive voice. Gardens that touch me most are by no means always the smartest but instead the personal ones that are created by people who care about them. The spirit of place is as much about the owner and is I think almost impossible to keep once the garden moves on to a new owner
Sitting in filtered light under the trees is a great way to up your dose of infrared light. Some people believe we are suffering badly for lack of enough of it. Sit lots!
Yorkshire, UK!