Designing a Peace Garden

What is a Peace Garden? The Peace Garden Project Committee struggled with this question, as did the competition entrants. A jury made up of Hideo Sasaki, J.B. Jackson, and several other artists, writers, and designers, considered the answers offered by the many entries.  Designs varied widely, from vistas for quiet contemplation, to areas for active celebration. Both permanent and changing landscapes were featured, as were naturalistic designs, highly geometric designs, gardens as art, and gardens for food. One submittal called for no Peace Garden at all, until America became a true advocate of peace, and peace actually existed in the world.

Shown here are a few entries from the 1989 competition. Thomas Butcavage's simple design minimized the use of hardscape, while Karl Linn's design favored the use of sculpture and structure.