Sticks and Stones

Sculptor Luke DeLatour of Stones and Steel knows a thing or two about rocks which is why we invited him to our Meet the Artist – Become the Artist event recently.

He has created some beautiful sculptures from twisted ribbons of steel into which he incorporates hand selected river rocks and  pebbles – beautiful when fresh from the workshop and possibly even better when rusted to cinnamon tones.

The trick is knowing how and where to place them in the garden to showcase their shape, color and texture. Here are a few examples of my favorite pieces.

For Big Spaces

Sometimes you don't have a little gap in the garden you have a HUGE gap – such was the case after several shrubs gave up the ghost this winter. Clearly a cute 2' tall birdbath was not what I needed here but Luke's ring of stones was perfect. The solid green backdrop of the Hinoki cypress allowed the shape of the sculpture and color of the stones to be clearly seen together with the striking vertical steel poles. The height nestled it in nicely between shrubs yet was tall enough to be a focal point.

Perhaps the art I miss most is the cluster of seed heads. They stood 8' tall and looked just right emerging from our meadow.

I know Luke is designing some other versions of this including pieces you would set on the ground. Can't wait to see them!

For smaller spaces

Most homeowners need pieces of a more modest scale so what about these? Luke handpicks each rock  – they are reminiscent of seed pods, especially when set among fading astilbe flowers and grasses in our woodland garden.

One of Luke's most popular designs was actually a spur of the moment idea – incorporating  pale aqua beach glass into the design. The translucence of the glass works especially well when light is allowed to stream through so think about where best to place these so you can enjoy them.

For Kids of all Ages

Who can resist this game of trying to maneuver the pebbles along the wire? A perfect table-side game in the garden

From Sticks to Showcase

While glass artist Jesse and Luke were displaying their art my husband Andy was busy offering woodturning demonstrations in the barn. He showed enthusiastic visitors how he selected each piece of wood, looking for interesting swirls and patterns to create our one of a kind tools, heirloom bouquets, bowls, Holiday ornaments and more. It's only when you watch him working at the lathe that you truly appreciate the craftsmanship involved.

In fact the response to his work was so overwhelming that he is now offering  three different woodturning classes which are sure to be very popular and is setting up his own business; StumpDust which will launch shortly.

In the meantime you'll find his sawdust still on this site in our STORE

Whether taking stones, weathered smooth over time by moving water and combining them with other materials to create art or salvaging wood from diseased or fallen trees and creating beautiful yet functional pieces there is something incredibly satisfying about taking natures creation and finding a way to reveal its hidden beauty. That's what both Luke and Andy have done.

Watch for our Art in the Garden event next year; Earth, Wind & Fire! Be sure you're signed up for my newsletters to get advance notice.