When it comes to garden art, Susan Turner has learned not to second-guess herself. There is no contemplation, no consultation, no weighing of consequences. When she sees the right piece, she knows it. She has always lived by her heart in these matters. And so far, she hasn’t regretted a single decision.
The garden itself is an endless mélange of plant life—tropicals and perennials, big colorful blooms and tall monstrous spikes, magnificent old trees and delicate sprouts that have only begun to consider coming to life. Likewise with the art she has chosen. Some bring a smile. Others inspire awe. Some spin and shine and jangle. Others are still and pensive.
More than 40 sculptures have homes in Turner’s garden, all but one created by North Carolina artists or purchased through local galleries. She found several pieces at the Grovewood Gallery. There’s one from local artist Hoss Haley. One of her all-time favorites, Maxim’s Flight, by artist Evan Lewis, is a spinning sculpture that appears to float on the front lawn.
Many of Turner’s pieces are the whimsical creations of Asheville sculptor Stefan Bonitz, otherwise known as “Steebo.” A self-described “collector of shapes and forms,” Steebo collects his materials from scrap heaps and junkyards, giving them new purpose as one-of-a-kind sculptures. He’s created an artistic menagerie: cats and dogs, birds and spiders, dragons and other fantastical creatures.
“I think that art can really create a space that you want to be in. It suddenly becomes a purposeful space,” he says. “People often ask me which kind of sculpture I prefer, functional or sculptural. But I say all of it is functional. When it’s in a garden and it creates interest or puts a smile on someone’s face, that’s a function.”
“I like supporting local art,” says Turner. “I’m always glad to be able to help the artists in this area make a living. But the truth is, their work really brightens my day. My reward is looking out each day and enjoying their art.”
Local Resources: Grovewood Gallery – sculpture; Hoss Haley – sculptor; Stefan Bonitz – sculptor; Evan Lewis – sculptor