It was a challenge to cultivate a garden in Washington’s short growing season, but some of us without green thumbs just didn’t know when to quit.
One thing that puzzled me during Seattle summers, when I trolled nurseries for starter seedlings, was a section in the store called “garden decor.” There, we could find noisy wind chimes, shiny tree ornaments, fake fountains and cutesy figurines.
I eyed them with suspicion, because for me, gardens contain natural elements such as flowers, grasses, trees, pebbles, stones and boulders. But a Cupid statuette just might distract from struggling plants, so I figured that was the purpose for outdoor bric-a-brac.
I was always happy to return to Hawaii Island to see family and friends, but also to wallow in the lush landscape. On a visit many years ago, I went to the Kohala Coast to check out some of the new resorts that were popping up. One pricey hotel dug a man-made river and artificial beach right next to the sparkling turquoise ocean.
“Where am I?” I asked, slapping my face to see if I had entered the Twilight Zone.
Walking along the breathtaking lava shoreline, I stopped short at the sight of enormous stone statuary, imported from Asia. Startled by the appearance of huge, white statues nestled in the beach naupaka, I wondered why anyone wanted to detract from the natural beauty of our island. This is Hawaii not Seattle. There’s no need to add ornamentation! I was confused.
Throughout Hilo, we see many well-kept yards and flower beds, labors of love by proud homeowners. When we want something more formal, we go to Lili‘uokalani Gardens on Banyan Drive. Among the largest authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan, its tranquil 24 acres were donated and dedicated to the Japanese community in Hawaii by Queen Lili‘uokalani, our last ruling monarch.
Another place for restful relaxation is the atrium at Hilo Public Library, where we can sit on benches around its edges to breathe in blissful silence and serenity.
Imagine if garden decorations were plopped into these outdoor sanctuaries.
Oh, wait … they were!
When I go to the library, I see an objet d’art in the middle of the open area, trying to compete with yellow lehua on the ohia tree in the center, hapu‘u, orchids and anthurium around the perimeter.
At the edge of Lili‘uokalani is a modern sculpture in the exact spot where on my walks I like to pause and admire Hilo. This new work now interrupts my line of vision as I take in one of the most beautiful bays in the world.
Along with large, white statues sitting in naupaka on the Kohala Coast, such installations are distractions. But, thanks to loud public outcry, the sculpture at Lili‘uokalani will be removed. And perhaps it’s time to reconsider the others.
Local perspective and sensibility has an appreciation — even a reverence — for nature, and although it inspires, we feel no urge to embellish.
Mainland city planners like to erect artwork in their parks, but here, it’s superfluous.
It’s not to say we don’t enjoy art; we do. But ours is a different perspective and aesthetic. We mahalo artists who want to share their vision and talent with thought-provoking pieces such as those at the library and Lili‘uokalani Gardens, but in our islands, such artwork belongs not in public areas but in a museum or gallery.
For outdoor spaces in Hawaii, let’s enjoy Mother Nature at her finest and agree that we cannot improve on perfection.
Rochelle delaCruz was born in Hilo, graduated from Hilo High School, then left to go to college. After teaching for 30 years in Seattle, she retired and returned home to Hawaii. She welcomes your comments at rainysideview@gmail.com. Her column appears every other Monday.