Three Sculptures by Ann Linnemann
Figurative Sculptures by Ann Linnemann - Denmark

Robin was an avid gardener since his late teenage years and his long-term goal was the development of a beautiful garden that would also be a source of ideas for his clay work. The “ANGLOJAPANADIAN” garden was started over 30 years ago on a beautiful country property, West of Victoria, amongst a significant stand of first growth Douglas fir and other indigenous trees.

The design of the garden is based on the five basic forms of Japanese garden,
STROLL, SCROLL, TEA, ZEN and COURTYARD. In Japan, the largest form of garden for strolling in was developed about 400 years ago for the Chiefs of the Samurai Warrior class. They were often storytelling gardens outlining the exploits of the owner, or places that he had been or imagined. With a climate and landscape often reminiscent of Japan and both Robin and Judi having a great love of Japanese culture, the garden has come to represent the journey of life and places been. It is not intended to be a Japanese garden, but borrows greatly from Japanese garden history and concepts. It features a wide range of oriental plants, such as Japanese maples, rhododendrons, azaleas, hydrangeas, enkianthus, viburnums, cherries, magnolias, clematis, iris, ferns, hostas and many others. With our mild climate, the garden has something in bloom at all times of the year, although in mid-winter you may have to search for them on your hands and knees!

A variety of garden details are present including ponds, grasslands, woodlands, sculpture, orchard and paved areas, much of which also has touches of humour and whimsy. This is a throwback to Robin’s roots in England where humour has had a strong traditional presence in gardens. The development of the garden has been an extensive collaboration with many other artists and artisans. It has been featured in many books, magazines and television programs.

With Robin’s passing Judi has unfortunately had to shrink parts of the garden due to the demands of it’s upkeep. The past few years have also taken a toll on the garden due to the extreme dryness and heat. Some of the plants have had to be moved to more suitable areas for their needs. Even with these complications the garden is still a very magical place.