Brava

June 2013

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Zen and the Wisconsin art of Japanese gardening Photo this page courtesy of Rotary Botanical Gardens By Lauren Pongan | Photographed by Erin Weberpal So seemingly far away, and yet just a quick jaunt from Madison, the Japanese Gardens at Janesville's Rotary Botanical Gardens are a place apart. Trickling water sings a calming mantra, and a deliberate order pervades. In the midst of life's chaos, the gardens offer respite, a place to slow down, breathe, contemplate. Traditionally, Japanese gardens are symbolic spaces in which we witness how skilled hands work to subtly shape nature, crafting a landscape that is transportive in its calm and order, both mentally and physically. "The intent of our design is that when people walk into our garden they feel they're immersed in a different place— Japan," explains Mark Dwyer, Rotary Botanical Gardens' head of horticulture. Dappled sunlight, varied shades of green and sculpted topography—those details are among the hallmarks of the gardens Dwyer tends. They embody the essence of the Japanese aesthetic, with a Wisconsin twist. "We're really a Midwestern manifestation or representation of a Japanese garden," he explains. Thanks to Wisconsin's harsh winter climate, traditional Japanese plants are not always the best option here. More important than authentic plant selection, says Dwyer, are the layout, design and intention or thoughtfulness that go into creating Japanese gardens, which can take on many different aesthetics. Rotary Botanical Gardens' interpretation focuses on four specific design aspects—all calming, contemplative elements you can bring home to your own rendition of a Japan meets Wisconsin oasis. June 2013 bravamagazine.com 49

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