Lives of the Great Gardeners

The book explores the lives of 40 men and women who have created some of the world's most exciting gardens, showcasing their diverse backgrounds and approaches to garden-making. It covers gardens from 18th-century England to 19th-century France and from contemporary Brazil to New York.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 06 April 2023
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd

Throughout history, remarkable gardeners have emerged from diverse backgrounds. Some hailed from aristocratic circles, engaging in amateur gardening as a passion, while others possessed professional design expertise, operating on an international scale. Some gardeners found their calling in garden-making through sister arts like sculpture or painting, while others had a hands-on experience in nursery work or botanical studies. What unites these exceptional individuals is their remarkable ability to transform ideas into innovative and relevant expressions that resonate with their respective eras.

The book is organized into four distinct sections. The first section, titled "Gardens of Ideas," explores the politically charged gardens crafted during the 18th century in England, exemplified by the works of figures like William Kent. It then transitions to Charles Jencks' Scottish garden, which draws inspiration from 21st-century cosmography. The second section, "Gardens of Straight Lines," delves into the lives of renowned formalist gardeners, showcasing the works of Le Nôtre at Versailles and the rational English minimalism of contemporary designer Christopher Bradley-Hole. The third section, "Gardens of Curves," begins with the influential landscape gardener "Capability Brown" and leads to the extraordinary Brazilian designer Roberto Burle Marx. Finally, the fourth section, "Gardens of Plantsmanship," explores the works of William Robinson, the father of naturalistic planting, and concludes with the expansive prairies created by Piet Oudolf, a favorite Dutch designer in New York.

These captivating narratives offer a profound insight into the world of garden-making, showcasing the diverse talents, inspirations, and creative approaches of these remarkable gardeners. Each section provides a rich tapestry of stories, capturing the essence of their contributions to the art of garden design and the enduring impact they have had on the landscape. Whether you are an avid gardener, a design enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty and artistry of nature, this book will captivate your imagination and inspire you to explore the endless possibilities of garden-making.

Weight: 998g
Dimension: 245 x 188 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780500297049