16 years ago, inspired by his grandfather, who became a gardener after being held in an internment camp during WWII, Glenn began to work on this garden. You will delight in the journey of exploring the exceptional place he has created. As you enter the garden through the imposing red arbor, be sure to ring the prosperity bell to bring good fortune. You’ll hear rushing water that comes from a pondless stream with a working waterwheel. Stroll further down the path to walk across a small wooden bridge and you will have reached the area that is affectionately called, “Birdtopia.” It is home to many whimsical stone birds and 45 multicolor birdhouses that hang on a single cedar tree. Continue your journey on the winding path to the koi pond nestled in the hillside. This 2,700-gallon pond is inhabited by 10 colorful (and hungry) koi. A traditional Japanese torii gate and bridge are positioned near two waterfalls and it’s all surrounded by an abundance of azaleas, rhododendrons, grasses, ferns, and dwarf bamboo.
To add bursts of color and reflected light to his garden, Glenn has placed a delightful mix of glass art throughout. From fused glass poppies and anemones to colorful monarch butterflies, your eye is drawn around the garden. All the pieces were designed and created by local PNW artists. Make sure to check out the elaborate golden chain tree above the torii gate—this small tree is adorned with over 30 fused glass flowers.
On the bottom tier of the garden, you will find a bench next to a small greenhouse that overlooks the Stimpson Family Nature Reserve. Sit down, take a deep breath, and enjoy the sounds and serenity of this special place.
Artist Vendors
Stephanie Burgess at Garden 6
Stephanie is a nationally acclaimed artist whose work speaks to love, hope, peace and kindness. The canvas for her art is wood, which is then burned and painted. The creation of a simple message, along with the intent of peace, community, family and friendship is at the heart of Burgess’s unique and contemporary style of art. Her work is playful and simple, yet carries a profound message. www.paintedpeace.com
“People seem to have a visible reaction of happiness when they see my art. It is simple, almost childlike and I think in our complex world today, it soothes the soul”
Sheri E. Ten Eyck at Garden 6
Sheri seeks ways to capture beauty in glass by tapping into her lifelong connection to the natural world. Her gallery, Wandering Oaks Fine Arts Gallery and Glass Studio has a mission of bringing more art to the Bellingham area. The motto of the gallery is that the greatest art is art that promotes self-discovery. https://wanderingoaksgallery.com
Jennifer Hays at Garden 6
Jennifer works with fused glass to explore her vision of nature through pieces for the garden and home.
“Every area has beauty, whether the sunflowers of Kansas, the lush greenery of Florida, the maple leaves in Vermont, or the Puget Sound and cascade mountains of Washington. Expressing these beautiful moments in glass gives me immense joy.”
https://www.dragonflyglasspnw.com
Wendee Archer at Garden 6
Bellingham artist Wendee Archer’s work includes mixed media originals, prints and cards. Her love of whimsy and using bold and bright colors is expressed in her art style. Along with the exploration of new places, people and cultures, the beauty of Whatcom County and the joy of her grandchildren inspire her work.
