The Tree of Life in the Garden of Mythology

Today I rustled up some energy and went out to see a small exhibition of art by Jan Melville and David Wardman at Everglades Historic House & Gardens. 

Of course, the art by both artists was beautiful, but I had no idea how enchanting the gardens were. I spent a couple of hours wandering the winding paths and taking many photos. 

Though spring has progressed, there were still plenty of blossoms and flowers.

There were many impressive trees.

Some covered with lichen (proving that the air here is very clean).

Some with new lime green leaves.

So many brightly coloured, joyous things.

The amusing Bacchus Fountain, designed by Danish sculptor Otto Steen.

The stage area, with rows of hedges either side, the ‘wings’ that the actors/dancers emerged from.

Stunning views through the trees.

Wood ducks happily grazing on the lawns.

Amazing dry-stone walls by Danish-born landscape designer Paul Sorensen.

Twisted, sculptural trees.

More dry-stone walls at the lookout.

A beautiful Grotto Pool, with fern leaves reflecting in the water, looking like etched glass.

I saw a water skink sunning itself on one of the many garden sculptures that have been ingeniously created from the stumps of trees that have been cut down.

There were sculptures of birds, wombats and koalas.







These sunny little beings.

This strange, furred flower—a Pasque Flower (Pulsatilla vulgaris) according to a nearby sign.

And gorgeous native plants, like this delicate mauve beauty.

I am so glad that I made the effort to come out and see the exhibition, and Everglades, for it has reminded me that this is the landscape I live in. I am so lucky.