Walker, Sophie: The Japanese Garden

The most comprehensive exploration of the art of the Japanese garden published to date, this book covers more than eight centuries of the history of this important genre. Author and garden designer Sophie Walker brings fresh insight to this subject, exploring the Japanese garden in detail through a series of essays and with 100 featured gardens, ranging from ancient Shinto shrines to imperial gardens and contemporary Zen designs. Leading artists, architects, and other cultural practitioners offer personal perspectives in newly commissioned essays. - In 2014 Sophie Walker became the youngest woman to design a garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Having studied art history, Sophie later qualified in horticulture, plant science, and garden design. Based in London, she practises globally. In addition to designing gardens, Sophie lectures on conceptual design, the Japanese garden, planting, and the garden environment. Key Selling Points - Both a comprehensive survey of the Japanese garden and a unique exploration of its design principles and philosophy - Explores the enduring impact of the Japanese garden, as well as key subjects relating to its design, such as the use of elements including the path, aesthetic concepts such as wabi sabi and mitate, Zen Buddhism, and the poetry of plants - Illustrated with contemporary photographs and never-before-published imagery by key figures such as Yves Klein, Isamu Noguchi, and Dan Pearson - Features new essays by leading artists, architects, and thinkers, offering fresh perspectives on the influence of the Japanese garden - Includes an illustrated appendix of Japanese plants