Regardless of your attitude toward the wind, it will find its way into your yard. Sure, it can cause a mess, but it can also add a touch of beauty and mystery. Lots of us have wind chimes that hint at a gentle breeze passing through, or warn us loudly of impending storms. My favorites are these two: one sounds like musical raindrops, the other an ancient-sounding gong that grabs my attention then fades to a whisper.
But my favorite way to welcome the wind is silently. With wind sculptures, the breeze takes shape and visibly moves through the yard. These two dancers
come to life with the slightest breeze, often before I’m aware that it’s arrived. It doesn’t take much to unceremoniously send them crashing to the lawn – not unlike being voted off Dancing with the Stars.
This metal maple leaf hangs from the maple tree, spinning and swaying like a carefree child – at one with forces invisible to others.
Several years ago, we installed three large wind sculptures in the backyard. They arrived from the artist all shiny and coppery, and have now weathered into an earthy patina. The smaller ones pick up the breeze easily, and change their tempo in perfect harmony with the wind.
The largest one stubbornly stands there, unwilling to budge until the wind sends limbs and debris hurling through the yard. Even then, it’s a slightly arrogant spin, slow and reluctant. In the winter, this sculpture is a silent snowy masterpiece.
So – love it or curse it – you might as well welcome the wind…it’s here to stay.