Standing guard in the yard

Sculptures have a long, proud history for adding stately elegance – and surprise – to a garden

Ionly caught a glimpse of the couple as I entered the garden. I followed the path around the lawn, past the pergola that gave shade to the bench below. The pair were in a corner, almost hidden in foliage. As I approached, I felt I was intruding on an intense conversation between lovers that had fallen silent at that very moment. Had they declared their love? Had they quarrelled? What had she asked of him? Had he answered?

I tried to interpret their expressions, to imagine their thoughts. I wanted to hear them speak, but the silence continued.

But then, why would five feet of inanimate concrete have words for me?

The pair had been lovingly placed there when the garden was young; so many years ago that bright yellow lichen now adorned his jacket. The quiet presence of this piece of statuary enhanced the garden, perhaps evoking pleasant memories in the one who tended it throughout the seasons.

ABOVE: This pair appear to be having a private conversation in a garden in Portsmouth, U.K. RIGHT: Glenn G. Smith’s works are displayed in a small sculpture garden at the Homer Watson House & Gallery at 1754 Old Mill Rd. in Kitchener.