There is a lovely spot just between summer and true fall when the air is slowly cooling and the fierceness of the sun is less effective. It’s a great time to hike into the woods and see nature’s garden. I am inspired by what I see in the natural world time and time again. The suddenness of color interspersed into soft neutral tones of the woodland is so amazing. As I see these I think of artist, Andy Goldsworthy. He works with natural found items and creates lovely temporary sculptures in the same way. Sometimes he puts bright leaves into muted backgrounds by creating patterns that are visible from a good distance away. This punctuation or ‘shout’ of color is really very art worthy.
I came across these amazing fungi while walking in the Blue Hills just outside of Boston. I know that in just a few weeks the woods will be vivid with the blazing New England colors of fall but right now there is a subtle beauty to see. Even along the coast of Cape Cod there are signs that the fall is approaching.
Walking and touring around the countryside helps me remember some of the basics of landscape design. Repetition of plants to bring the garden together and make it cohesive. A focal point that brings a statement of color to view. Soft harmonies in plant material color and texture can bring calm into the space . These are sometimes called ‘naturalist design principals’ for obvious reasons.
I’d love to hear from you. How are you noticing the coming of Autumn?
