UC Gardening Blogs

A Feast for the Sensations: An Artist’s Garden in Victoria

We spent a most enjoyable week in Victoria, British Columbia this July. Our Airbnb was an old converted church called The Fernwood Church, owned by a French-born artist. There are articles online regarding its restoration.

Upon arrival, I was immediately captivated by the eclectic garden. Its a very small lot and the garden is just a few feet wide, wrapping around the church. And yet, there was so much to see and enjoy. Everywhere, we saw handmade water features - with soothing bubbling, trickling or cascading water sounds. The owner collects driftwood from local beaches and paints them, creating structures with cement, tile, rocks, metal, shells, etc. Many are re-purposed household items. One picture below shows his water feature that incorporates kitchen utensils including teaspoons which slowly twirl around as the water trickles down to a glass-studded cement bowl. Virtually all the garden features are run by solar energy.

Meandering walkways lead the visitor to various meditation spots. Every part of the garden was well-utilized and filled with eye candy. There was so much attention to detail. All the plants were healthy and well cared for. I especially liked the brilliant purple and highly scented lavender. We made sure to spend time every day soaking in the beauty and wonder of this peaceful little paradise.

The last picture was included if you're wondering what the interior looks like. The Fernwood Church was very comfortable, airy, filled with artwork, and not creepy. However, the highlight of our Airbnb stay was most definitely the artist's bohemian garden. What a delightful feast for the senses!

photos by Cindy Yee