Whether it is a monumental piece of carved sandstone or a collection of seashells and driftwood collected last holiday and strung together with fishing line, art in the landscape defines the essence of a garden. Regardless of the creator, including art in your garden is a form of self expression and creates a mood that cannot be achieved any other way.

There are many celebrated examples of art in the landscape, and a visit to your local library will expose you to many more. Park Güell in Barcelona features the work of artist Antoni Gaudi, whose incredible mosaic sculptures have inspired generations of gardeners to include mosaics in their outdoor spaces. And while the scale of Gaudi’s creations is overwhelming, the use of cheap materials such as cement and discarded ceramics makes garden art accessible to all.

Another form of art in the landscape is known as Land Art or Earth Art. This is where natural elements from the landscape have been used in a creative way. It includes sculpting the land in unusual formations, or placing found objects like stones and leaves in an artistic arrangement. Some of these art forms are temporary, but it is amazing what can be created with the considered placement of basic landscaping materials. Just look at what the Japanese achieved with their raked sand gardens.

Of course, art in the landscape doesn’t have to be a stand alone feature. Gates, fences, garden furniture and paving can all offer opportunities to incorporate artistic elements into the garden. Controlling the growth of plants is another way of indulging in artistic expression. Many species of vine and shrub can be trained to grow into whimsical shapes. Topiary and hedging is another way of creating art from plants. Even espaliered fruit trees can bring a magical element to a practical application of maximising fruit yield.

And while we live in a region that is home to many artists, giving us an opportunity to enjoy art outdoors as well as in, there is nothing to stop you experimenting with some materials yourself, to create a personal touch in your own garden. Some materials will last for many years unchanged, while others will weather over time, creating a work of art that age as we do.

And if all this sounds too hard, we are very lucky to have the sculpture garden at the Maroochy Bushland Botanic Gardens on our doorstep. Located at Tanawah, the sculpture garden offers a place for quiet reflection and inspiration that feeds the soul. A wonderful way to spend a sunny winter day on the coast.