Written by No matter where we wander art and design surround us.
It’s everywhere, hung on the walls of public spaces, graffiti on buildings, sculptures on walls and in parks, and especially design in nature.
There are so many creative people willing to share their inspiration with us. Last week I visited a few places in Florida and found some interesting art pieces and beautiful design by nature.
First, in the Memphis airport, they hung some paintings by local artists. Here a few that I enjoyed.
Once we landed in Florida, we visited Ybor City.
I love the architecture with the old brick and wrought iron. Charm is added with the local trolley, and add some flavor with favorite restaurants, but what really lifted my spirits were the local pets roaming the streets.
In Orlando, we strolled the Leu Gardens.
The plants did most of the inspiring. Scattered throughout the park were metal sculptures, pergolas, and fountains. Find out more about the various species of botanicals via Wikipedia here: Harry P. Leu Gardens
A Scottish ground clock was added to the gardens in 1961
(no longer working, hands are missing ) but I liked how they designed the area in brick swirls to compliment the round clock on the hill. Compare today’s clock with the original with hands.
The trees were the biggest show.
My photos do them no justice. They were immense, the foliage varied, from moss covered oak branches, to spiky palms, to soft evergreens.
   
On our way back to the airport
we stopped in Lakeland and checked out the flowers at Hollis Gardens alongside Mirror Lake. The art was mingled along the walkway and the flower gardens. Even the water playground in the park was colorful. It’s clever how they cover up electrical boxes with pictures of the flowers.
The local bird-life added to the pleasure of the leisurely walk around the lake. The Garden tells a story about Florida.
Watch and find out more here: