A Moment In Time

Object NameGarden

Artist / Maker Austin Eischeid (American, born 1988)

Date2024

MediumAssorted perennials and bulbs

ClassificationsArt on Campus Preparatory Studies and Maquettes

Credit LineIn the Anderson Sculpture Garden, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.

Object numberU2025.130

Status

On view

CultureAmerican

Label TextContaining over 1200 perennial plants and more than 5000 bulbs, this garden follows the New Perennial Movement of design meant to emphasize the use of perennials, including some native plant species, to create a naturalistic landscape. The perennial plantings attract pollinators, and provide food and shelter for animals and insects throughout the year. Designed by Iowa State University alum (Horticulture, 2011) and Carroll, Iowa native Austin Eischeid of Austin Eischeid Garden Design, this garden reflects the contemporary design practice popularized by designer and mentor Piet Oudolf (High Line, Lurie Gardens, Battery Park). Eischeid has worked with Oudolf for over a decade helping lay out his dynamic gardens all over the world. Eischeid’s designs have been featured in Better Homes and Gardens, Fine Gardening as well as the Iowan Magazine. His work has been cited in many publications, including the new book The Contemporary Garden. His designs can also be seen in Millenium Park in Chicago, Kingwood Center Gardens in Mansfield, Ohio, and soon to be at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in Richmond Virginia. This design movement has numerous benefits including reduced maintenance, and water usage compared to traditional structured plantings that often include many annuals. The plantings provide a beautiful backdrop to the sculpture exhibitions found in the Anderson Sculpture Garden. Austin Eischeid’s garden expands the tradition of designed landscapes at Iowa State University, from the 19th century asymmetrical Central Campus lawn dotted with commemorative groves of trees, to the 20th century formal structured design as expressed in the south quadrangle outside of Parks Library. Bound by these two historic landscapes, this 21st century garden design, A Moment in Time, explores a new method of planting highlighting the interaction between perennial species and boldly celebrating the beauty these plants bring in all seasons, especially in the winter months. See more about Austin at www.austineischeid.com

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