Asian Water Garden
The Asian Water Garden reveals itself to visitors like a hidden treasure. Beyond rock-backed berms lies a quiet, secluded space beneath shade trees. Bamboo, grasses, ground cover and dense evergreens create lush layers of green. It’s the perfect place for meditative relaxation and appreciation of beauty.
In this peaceful garden, gently flowing water, bamboo, Buddha statues, a teahouse and a waterfall create a tranquil space to observe nature. A cedar teahouse has a calming, woodsy aroma that circulates through its screened breezeway. Above the garden, a mosaic stone path created by Norma Schell and her children incorporates beautiful designs made with small colored rocks found along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
In June 2019, Abler Art Gallery installed the sculpture seen in this picture. After visiting the gardens in 2017, John and Naomi began creating this inspired piece that incorporates lily pads, a koi fish, tall grasses, iris style flowers, and whimsical glass blown balls bringing together the colors of the garden, the calm serene space and elements of nature. We have a number of Abler Glass pieces in our gardens that are thoroughly enjoyed. These pieces are safe to stay outside in the winter months as well.
Eastern Symbolism
Symbolism abounds at our Asian garden. The Figures of Buddha are seen throughout the area, an iconic addition to Asian gardens, serving both as art and symbols of eastern spirituality. Water and stone exemplify the aspect of Yin-Yang, two complementary opposites. Pagoda-shaped lighting is also a traditional design element. Antique Japanese chairs and other sculptures and décor add to the peacefully elegant ambiance. Moss adheres to rocks and pebbles adding color and texture. All these elements converge to create an environment of serenity and oneness.
Modeling of Japanese gardens are based on spiritual and philosophical ideas. Japanese gardens have always been conceived as a representation of a natural setting. In traditional Japanese gardens ponds and streams are carefully placed to attract good fortune.
