Snowy Pergola

One of my "signature" images of the Brockwell Park year, which I feel embodies many of the aesthetic ideals of the project. The image is constructed around the very bold square structure of the pergola and building, but is also interlaced with natural forms and irregular textures, helping to convey the age and maturity of the walled garden. There is very little evidence of modernity in the scene, and in this case I believe this to be a strength in that it shows the garden as a well-preserved historical monument and place of tranquillity. I have made more recent photographs of the pergola in heavier snow, but without the paving they don’t have the same balance or range of tones. They don’t have the bright yellow tulips either. There is also a spring counterpart to this image with the wisteria in full bloom. March 2008.