The Key to Choosing a Sculpture for Your Garden

We’ve all seen it. The one house in the neighborhood that went a bit overboard with the bird baths. Or, the yard with that giant laughing buddha statue that completely takes over…as opposed to the megalodon sized abstract sculpture that, well, you just can’t seem to figure out what it is.

Whether it’s a sweet ceramic pool for birds to fluff and preen in, a koi fish pond or a looming sculpture- if you’re looking to jazz up your yard with some structural decor, it can be tricky deciding what corroborates best with your overall garden scheme. How can you ensure you’ve made the right choice? Here are some tips to consider when choosing a sculpture for your garden.

Bigger is not always better

Sculptures are art, and when you place a sculpture in your garden, you share a bit of your unique style with guests that visit your humble abode. Remember that large statues will become the focal point, and though you do want the statue to be admired, you don’t want to block out other essential elements of the landscape. Choose small statues and place them in unexpected positions to add a creative touch to shrubs and flowers. If you have a large, open yard, then a larger statue is a nice fit to help transform empty space.

What form sings to your heart?

A rearing stallion? A funky surfboard? How about a clever word? Sculptures come in all shapes, letters and sizes- it’s up to you to choose what you find beautiful. Opt for colors such as white, black and brown, because these colors tend to contrast well with foliage.

Choosing the best materials

Traditionally, bronze and stone were used to create sculptures for their ability to handle the elements well and last for years. Wood is a popular material, but doesn’t guarantee a long life outdoors. If you have a koi pond, blown glass sculptures work well, reflecting light off of water in a shimmery display that is eye-catching. Many sculptors use metal for statues, as it is highly durable and can be finished in a diverse range of colors.