I had the pleasure of attending my third Garden Bloggers Fling this year. We spent an incredible weekend touring the Washington DC area, including Northern Virginia and Maryland.
One thing that caught my eye was the plethora of concrete yard art. I noticed this more than in Texas, or any of the other Flings I’ve been to, maybe it’s the historical nature of the area.
One of our first stops, was Hillwood Estate, which had French-themed statues.
Throughout the garden, there was loose symmetry, which I love, and have implemented in my own garden.
Several different gardens displayed St. Francis. This is not only my favorite from the Fling, but my favorite depiction ever.
I think everyone on The Fling has this picture. The concrete columns of the monastery we visited were masterpieces.
Even this chipmunk was a fan. This is the first one I’ve ever seen, as we don’t have these little creatures in Texas.
Some concrete was the star of the show.
Some blended effortlessly into the background.
One of these is from the Fling and one is just outside my front door.
You’re right — there WAS a lot of concrete statuary in the Fling gardens this year. Maybe all those classical, white buildings in D.C. have had an influence, eh?
Must be … I loved it, inspired me to add more to my garden
I loved the story about the former owner taking decades to concrete his front porch, railing and planters.
Yes, that was incredible. How lucky to be able to purchase such a piece of art.
I missed that statue of St. Francis. It’s so wonderful. At the time I didn’t think about all the concrete but now that you mention it…
There’s so much to see, it’s amazing how much you miss! I wish I had seen the insect hotel and the inside of the monastery.
So very beautiful! Great pictures and introspection!
Thanks! I hope you’re able to make the Austin Fling next year 🙂
You took stunning photographs! Loved looking at all the statues from your perspective. I was inspired by that bench in the first shot. Can’t wait to shop around for something like it!
Thanks! It is definitely fun to see all of the different perspectives, and my mind is spinning with all the ideas I picked up from the gardens 🙂 I’m sorry I didn’t get to talk to you at the Fling, hopefully you’ll be in Austin next year?
I’ve come home thinking “concrete” thoughts, too. Nice post!
Thanks! I only have 2 gargoyles and a St. Pasqual. My collection will be growing.
Now that you’ve posted about it, there were a lot of concrete statues. I didn’t realize we’d seen so many of them. Great photos — my favorite was the half woman, half lion (or whatever animal that was supposed to be).
Thanks! Yes, those were so beautiful. Who would have guessed? 🙂
Funny that you zoned in on the statuary. That is what I remember about my only trip to Washington DC. I love having statuary n the garden. You have a lot of inspiration here.
I’m a big fan of yard art. They are great 4 season additions to any garden 🙂
P.S. A concrete chipmunk would be best for your garden. As cute and amusing as these little critters are they can be quite destructive in the garden.
Good idea! I also bought concrete ducks at the nursery today. They are much less destructive near the pool than the real ones!