A Visit to Umlauf Sculpture Garden

Part of the fun of having out-of-town guests is introducing them to my new discoveries here in Austin. Last week I took my visiting parents to several of my favorite haunts including the Umlauf Sculpture Garden.

The Gardens combine the best of both worlds; art and beautiful landscaping. They even have some bronze plants like this lily.

The colors of this yellow columbine, (Ranunculaceae Aquilegia hinckleyana) popped under the shade of the tall oaks.

Some of the sculptures touched my heart, such as Mother and Child in bronze; 1972.

As you can see, much of the landscape is greenscape with few flowers. I found it a little like listening to instrumental music without the lyrics. The greens are soothing and frame the sculptures well.

And when the flowers finally make an appearance they are appreciated that much more. I think this might be a red osier dogwood, (cornus sericea).

My favorite sculpture was a bronze called Ballerina I.

As beautiful as the sculptures are I must admit the water gardens, plants and animals were what I kept finding myself drawn to. The manmade stream and ponds are especially peaceful.

If you have a chance, please visit Umlauf Sculpture Garden. It's a treat for your senses.