I’ve really enjoyed seeing art by local artists showcased on recent garden tours.

In one of the gardens, the owner told me that the goal is to match the right piece with the right place. In fact, the placement in the garden sometimes feels so natural, it’s only after noticing similar pieces repeated more than once on the tour that it clicks: hey, this is an extended art show.

Yet it’s an art show with a difference – context. By viewing the artwork in situ, you can see for yourself not only that a well-chosen piece of art can enhance a garden space, but that the space itself can provide a unique frame that enhances the art. It’s a perfect partnership.

Last month, a number of gardens on the Beach Garden Tour exhibited works by two Toronto artists: metalwork by Tod Waring and bronze sculpture by Marilyn Walsh [marilyn_walsh (at) rogers.com] – seen at right in one of the featured gardens.

Here is a show and tell with just a few of my favourites on the tour.

A “winged Victory” bronze by Marilyn Walsh accents a fountain

A contemplative bust by Walsh in a quiet corner

Tod Waring’s hummingbirds lent whimsy to a couple of the gardens. Love the red against the blue here.

A cluster of wind sculptures by Waring, adding treelike height and animation along an expanse of fencing.

A bouquet of flowers by Waring planted in an unclaimed spot. I also liked them planted in a line, snugly against a white driveway wall.