Outdoor Art Guide — Everything You Need to Know From its Curation to Installation

Imagine a garden where nature’s beauty harmonizes with human creativity. A place where you can explore, contemplate, revel in whimsy or admire the tapestry of culture and nature. All of this is possible with thoughtfully curated pieces of garden art. Sculpture or sundial, bench or fountain, artwork enriches your outdoor space and invites you to engage in your surroundings in a more meaningful way.

I sat down with Jennifer Warren-Gash, exterior designer and resident art curator here at Mashamba, to create an all-encompassing guide to outdoor art. She explains the essentials from curation to installation to help you pick the best artwork to suit your style, space and budget.

Step 1: Define Your Vision

“When curating, the first thing I do is ask the client what they envision, the purpose of the art,” Jennifer explains. “For me, the artwork’s intention is the most important factor in determining the type of art and its location.”

There are many ways art can enhance your outdoor space. It can be a focal point to draw the eye, an invitation that beckons you down a garden path or it could exist purely to evoke a sense of calm or adventure.

To help clarify your vision, we’ve compiled a list of questions that will guide you in choosing the perfect piece that aligns with your aesthetic goals and practical needs.

What is the primary purpose of adding art to my garden? Is it to create a focal point, enhance the aesthetic, add whimsy or provide a functional element?
What style or theme do I want my garden to reflect? Do I prefer modern, classical, rustic, abstract or another style?
What emotions or moods do I want the art to evoke? Should the artwork create a feeling of serenity? Or be playful, inspiring, contemplative or energetic?
How does the artwork fit into the existing landscape and design? Will the piece complement or contrast with the plants, structures and other garden elements?
What size and scale of artwork will best suit my space? Do I need a large, commanding piece or smaller, subtle accents?
Do I want the artwork to have a specific cultural, historical or personal significance? Should it reflect a particular heritage, tell a story or hold personal meaning? Should I consider sourcing from a local artist or having a sculpture made from a locally sourced stone?
What is my long-term vision for the garden as a whole? How will the artwork fit into my plans for the garden’s growth and any additional art purchases?

Step 2: Select Your Artwork

It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the available possibilities and styles of art. But by answering the questions above and knowing the purpose, tone and size, you are halfway there. Jennifer recommends further narrowing your choice by selecting the type of artwork, the material and by setting a budget before searching for artists.

“Once you have a clear idea of what you want and how much you want to spend, I suggest looking for artists both locally and further afield that suit your personal aesthetic. A broader search allows for a more diverse and enriching selection of art,” explains Jennifer.

TYPES OF ARTWORK

Sculpture

Creates a focal point and adds visual interest in both large and small sizes.
Strategically placed, sculptures help create pathways, highlight specific garden areas and provide contrast to the plant life.

Water feature

Creates a soothing atmosphere and a sense of movement.
Attracts wildlife and provides a refreshing contrast to greenery and can even cool your outdoor space.
Strategically placed, water features serve as focal points, mask unwanted noise and create a peaceful retreat within the garden.

Wall art

Transforms plain walls into focal points and creates a sense of depth.
On terraces, wall art is especially effective in maximizing limited space and adding visual interest without occupying valuable floor space.

Functional art

Benches, pots, planters and sundials serve a practical purpose while enhancing aesthetic appeal.
Acts as a focal point, contributing to the overall design and ambiance of the garden.

IDEAL MATERIALS

Materials need to withstand the Mediterranean’s extreme sun, wind, rain and temperature fluctuations. And Jennifer tells us, “Material choice is important not just in terms of durability, but because it sets the tone for the artwork and your garden.” Each material - whether it’s the timeless elegance of marble, the organic warmth of wood or the sleek modernity of stainless steel - offers its own unique benefits and aesthetic qualities. With more than a decade of experience, Jennifer has useful insight into the best materials for outdoor artwork. Here’s her recommendations of time-tested materials:

Bronze

Lasts for generations. Durable and resistant to corrosion and can withstand outdoor elements.
Low maintenance. Minimal upkeep required to retain beauty and protect the surface.
Versatile. Complements various garden styles, allows for fine and intricate artistic detail and available in different finishes.
Character development. Unique patina forms over time, enhancing the art’s appearance and protecting the surface.
Long-term investment. Retains beauty and structural integrity, making it a valuable addition over time.
Historically significant. Used for thousands of years in art and sculpture, adding a sense of history and culture to pieces.

Stainless & Corten Steel

Resilience. Can endure harsh weather conditions and outdoor elements without significant degradation.
Versatile. Available in different finishes and suitable for a wide range of artistic expressions and intricate, imaginative designs.
Contemporary aesthetic. Sleek and modern appearance contrasts well with natural surroundings.
Low maintenance. Minimal upkeep required, typically limited to occasional rust prevention and cleaning.
Structural stability. Strong material that can support large and complex designs.

Marble & Other Stone

Timeless beauty. Its natural elegance adds a classic, enduring appeal to garden spaces.
Durable. Inherent resistance to weathering ensures longevity in outdoor settings.
Detailed craftsmanship. Carvers can create intricate and finely detailed sculptures.
Natural harmony. Textures and colors of natural stone blend seamlessly with garden aesthetics.
Low maintenance. Typically involves only occasional cleaning and sealing.
Graceful aging. Develops a distinguished patina over time, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
Historically significant. Often used in classical and historical art, adding cultural value.
Unique character. Each piece of marble or stone has distinctive veining and coloration, making every sculpture one-of-a-kind.

Wood

Natural warmth. Offers a rustic and organic aesthetic that complements and enhances garden surroundings.
Versatile. Woodcarvers can intricately shape and carve sculptures with ease allowing for a wide range of artistic and imaginative designs.
Character development. Can develop an appealing patina over time, enhancing character.
Maintenance. Occasional sealing or refinishing helps preserve its beauty and longevity.
Unique texture. Each piece of wood has distinctive grain patterns, making every sculpture unique.

Ceramic

Versatile. Allows for intricate detailing and a wide range of artistic expressions from contemporary to traditional styles.
Resilience. Fired ceramic is surprisingly durable and can withstand exposure to the elements, frost and temperature changes.
Visual interest. Offers a variety of glazing options and vibrant colors and textures can add a pop of colour to the garden.
Low maintenance. Requires minimal upkeep to retain its beauty and durability.
Unique appeal. Combines a delicate appearance with robust durability.

BUDGET

To determine your budget, you’ll need to consider factors like the artist, material and size. As an example, a smaller scale, limited-edition bronze sculpture can start around €15,000, but for extra-large pieces, materials like marble or commissions from famous artists, expect to pay upwards of €75,000. If you commission a custom piece, the artist may charge an additional fee for the design proposal. And besides the price of the artwork, the costs for transport, installation and maintenance also need to be considered.

Step 3: Make Your Purchase

Once you find an artist and concept that you truly love, it’s time to make your purchase. Jennifer tells us that it’s important to know that “Most garden artwork is not from stock, it’s a bespoke piece, created just for you. When you commission a piece of art, there’s a lot that is based on trust. Look for an artist that has a strong portfolio.”

And commissioning the art is just the start of the process. Depending on your specific selection, you’ll get to choose elements like the material, finish and size. Throughout the process, your feedback and approval will be needed on samples, mockups and finishes.

During this time, you’ll also need to arrange for shipping. Art pieces – especially large or delicate ones – need specialised packaging to prevent damage during transit. Custom crates, padding and protective waterproof coverings are essential to ensure safe delivery and to protect from moisture and temperature fluctuations. We recommend hiring professional art movers experienced in handling valuable and fragile items. And don’t forget to make sure your art is properly insured!

An in-demand artist, a time-intensive creation process and shipping can translate to a six month or more lead time, but in the end, you will have a custom piece of art that fits your requirements and aesthetic.

Step 4: Consider Lighting

In our garden and terrace designs, art is almost always paired with lighting. Well-designed lighting can transform your artwork, creating a stunning focal point and allowing you to enjoy it long after dark. Jennifer says, “I place lighting thoughtfully, so that the illumination highlights textures, shapes or colours and adds depth and dimension to both your art and garden.”

Types of Lighting and their effect:

Uplighting | Casts light upward to emphasize the height and stature of a piece.
Spotlighting | Focuses a beam directly on the artwork for a striking effect.
Soft Ambient Lighting | Creates a gentle glow around the artwork, integrating it seamlessly into the overall garden and lighting scheme.

Step 5: Prepare Site and Install

“The logistics of sourcing an outdoor art piece and having it installed can require a surprising amount of work,” Jennifer tells us. “And typically, the larger the piece, the more work required.” Proper project management is required to coordinate the details and timing of transporters, landscapers and contractors. Element you need to consider include —

Access | Both roads and your property need to accommodate the width and height clearances of transport equipment. Special equipment like cranes, forklifts or dollies may be needed to move and place the artwork and you’ll need to make sure that there’s clear pathways across your property for their use.
Site Preparation | Leveling the site may involve digging, grading or filling to create a stable and even surface.
Foundations & Supports | Depending on the size and weight of the artwork, you might need to build a concrete pad, stone base or other foundation. This provides stability and prevents the piece from shifting or sinking over time. For tall or heavy sculptures, anchoring points or footings will secure the artwork and prevent it from tipping over.
Utilities | If the artwork includes lighting or other electrical components, plan for the installation of power sources. This might involve running electrical lines and ensuring waterproof connections. For water features, ensure that there is an appropriate water supply, adequate pressure and a drainage system in place.

Step 6: Maintenance

Regular upkeep of your artwork is essential to prevent damage and preserve its integrity. While you yourself might not be maintaining the art – it’s often the responsibility of a house manager or gardener – it’s important to understand what’s required.

Cleaning | Regularly clean sculptures and other art pieces using appropriate methods for each material. For bronze and metal, use a mild soap and water solution to remove dirt and grime, followed by a soft cloth to dry. Stone and concrete pieces can be cleaned with water and a gentle brush. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage surfaces.
Sealing | Apply protective sealants to porous materials like wood, stone and concrete to prevent weathering, moisture absorption and decay. Reseal wooden pieces annually or as recommended by the artist to maintain their protection against the elements.
Inspection | Conduct regular inspections to identify signs of wear and damage, such as cracks, rust or discoloration. Early detection allows for timely repairs, preventing further deterioration. Pay particular attention to joints and connections, ensuring they remain secure and intact.
Repair and Restoration | Address damage promptly. For metal pieces, remove rust and apply rust inhibitors. Repair cracks in stone and concrete with appropriate fillers or professional restoration services. Wooden sculptures may require sanding and refinishing to restore their appearance.

Mashamba Can Help With Your Art Curation

As this guide shows, adding art to your garden is more than just choosing a pretty piece to admire. It’s a process that requires thoughtful selection and planning.

If you want to elevate your outdoor space but need help, Mashamba offers a full service offering that takes care of every detail, from art selection to managing the installation.

Get in touch and let us inspire you with our portfolio. Our curated collection offers a diverse range of artistic expressions that complement any outdoor setting.

Outdoor Art Guide