At a Glance
The garden. It can be perceived as a small part of the world, or as a world onto itself — a microcosm full of life and a complete work of art in and of itself. From the colors of flowers and their sweet scent to birdsong and soft breezes, a garden appeals to all of our senses. In a state of continual transformation, it cannot be captured in a single instance. In this lecture series, we invite you on an imaginary stroll through gardens as they have been represented in art. You’ll be led through a creative landscape that covers many historic, religious and artistic periods. Although this lecture stands independently, you will find all three parts of the series enjoyable and informative. In part one, you’ll learn how the garden has represented the idea of paradise on earth in many varied cultural traditions throughout the centuries. Discover how the secluded garden became a symbol of purity, with water sometimes playing a dominant role. And you’ll explore how gardens were meant to be a transcendent, blissful place for spiritual refuge devoted to meditation and prayer.
