The Placemaking Round-Up
A biweekly newsletter with public space news, resources, and opportunities.
The Biweekly Bazaar
A curated dispatch on all things public markets plus the latest announcements from the Market Cities Program.
A biweekly newsletter with public space news, resources, and opportunities.
A curated dispatch on all things public markets plus the latest announcements from the Market Cities Program.
Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.
This unique "landscape of a painting of a landscape," accented by trees and stunning floral beds provides a lush, green setting amid skyscrapers and asphalt.
The Topiary Garden, in downtown Columbus, is the site of a re-creation of Georges Seurat's famous Post-Impressionist painting--A Sunday afternoon on the Island of LaGrande Jatte--in sculpted evergreen topiary. It is the only topiary interpretation of a painting in existence. This landscape of "a painting of a landscape" includes 54 people, eight boats with sails of clematis, three dogs, a monkey and a cat. The largest topiary is 12 feet tall. The concept was developed by James T. Mason, a Columbus artist, with assistance from his wife Elaine Mason. A pond and some of Columbus' most beautiful trees complete the landscape.
The park is pedestrian friendly, with paths meandering around the topiaries and through the park. Well-placed park benches offer a place to rest, socialize and different views of the magical landscape. The park sits in one of Columbus' charming historic districts.
Old Deaf School Park and the Topiary Garden is a special place that literally draws you into the landscape. It is the cleanest park in the Columbus system--and that is due to a maintenance staff that really stewards--and park visitors that never let a piece of litter hit the ground.
The park is one of the most popular lunch spots in Columbus. The Topiary Garden is a photographer's paradise, drawing residents and visitors from all over the world.
The Topiary Garden evokes a smile and a sense of wonder to all who step into this painting of a landscape.
*Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.
