Thursday, October 17, 2019

A return to the garden of Jeffrey Bale

Mosiac pebble artist and garden designer Jeffrey Bale's Portland garden was one of the stops on last June's HPSO Study Weekend event...

From the brochure: "This garden includes an exotic blend of artistic stone elements collected by the garden owner from all over the world during the past 35 years. Making the most of the small area surrounding two small houses in a quietly gentrified neighborhood, the artist-owner has created a very individual, creatively unique garden space for relaxing..."

I had visited previously on a rainy afternoon one May (photos here). While both visits were delightful there was certainly magic to be had in being the only person in the garden, as I was on that first visit (the rest of the group arrived a little later).

Who knew bowling balls could crack, and that they're filled with moss?

The pathway to the back garden is a lengthy curving snake. Impossible to photograph with dozens of other people coming and going.

Jeffrey was over there, on the daybed platform that covers the outdoor bathtub, chatting with a couple of guests.

This is an artist's garden...

Hey there's Camille, a friend from up in Washington. We bumped into each other in several gardens over the weekend.

Lush is certainly a word that comes to mind when describing this garden...

I think I could just sit and look for hours and not see it all. Wouldn't that be fun?

Weather Diary, Oct 16: Hi 59, Low 52/ Precip .37"

All material © 2009-2019 by Loree Bohl for danger garden. Unauthorized reproduction prohibited and just plain rude.

15 comments:

  1. It's a truly incredible garden. I've always admired Bale's stonework but his garden is equally remarkable. That Buddha pavilion (I don't know what else to call it!) is a centerpiece that could be equally at home in a place like The Huntington Gardens.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. But it's oh so personal I can't imagine it being anywhere but right here.

      Delete
  2. I find the tiny gardens crowded with people SOOOO hard to comment on...other than the fact that I am so uncomfortable. I really admire how you have given this garden justice! (so hard to do when crowded.) His details are truly fun, sweet, beautiful, intriguing.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The only time the crowd was "upsetting" in this garden was when the people coming in wouldn't let me by to get out. Duh!

      Delete
  3. Those house paint colors are breathtaking,

    ReplyDelete
  4. Wow, what an amazing, eclectic garden! I love the mosaic paths and the Indian(?) wall especially.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The paths are what he is known for, well paths and rugs and more. Such talent and patience.

      Delete
  5. Thank you for another look at this enthralling garden. Touring it with you through photos is almost a transcendent experience. I can only imagine what it must be like in person. I appreciate how he doesn't let a rather ordinary neighborhood house limit his opulent design.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. He's taken an ordinary neighborhood home (two actually, adjoining lots) to a new level.

      Delete
  6. It's such a thrill to see his artwork around Portland and just as lovely to see it in his own garden. He's an inspiration, I would love to do something similar somewhere on the property. Someday. Thanks for the tour!

    ReplyDelete
  7. It was fun bumping into you during Study Weekend. Anna too! The gardens were pretty packed but they were a treat to visit nonetheless. This one was enchanting with its temple-like wall, mossy buddhas and intricate mosaics. It felt like a sanctuary, despite the crowds.
    -Camille

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The crowds definitely make a real difference in garden viewing. Then again it's also fun to see everyone, like you!

      Delete
  8. Sigh... I love this garden - so glad you got to visit again and shared it with us!

    ReplyDelete

Thank you for taking the time to comment. Comment moderation is on (because you know: spam), I will approve and post your comment as soon as possible!