On a daily basis the people of Bellingham go to work, some doing what they love and others just trying to get by in this beautiful big little city. Some find themselves here because of college and never left. In tough times like these, a global pandemic, a depressed job market and unsure times, anxiety and depression are at an all time high. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic local events and happenings would be ramping up. Plans to start a summer of constant fun would be amping up with the anticipation of Ski to Sea, Downtown Sounds and all of the amazing outdoor activities to be had that truly celebrate the wonderful community that is Bellingham.
Today we find ourselves unsure of even leaving our house. For some, short walks around their neighborhoods or in a local park has been the only reprieve from these solitary lifestyles we find ourselves living. One such local parks can be found tucked up in the residential area of the Silver Beach neighborhood. When walking in, this is one of the great forms of art you can find:
The Big Rock Garden, to some, is one of Bellingham’s best kept secrets. The Big Rock Garden was founded in 1981 by George, Mary Ann and David Drake originated as a nursery specializing in Rhododendrons, azaleas and Japanese Maples and was called Gardens of Art. The purpose of the Gardens of Art, according to George Drake, was to provide employment to youth with special needs. Here is a bust commemorating the first piece of art:
The Big Rock Garden was purchased by the City of Bellingham in 1993 and consists of a 2.5 acre garden with 37 permanent sculptures from local and international artists. The acquisition of the Big Rock Garden was an unconventional business transaction. According to the George F. Drake Foundation when having the area between the Big Rock Garden and the Silver Beach School assessed for the urban open spaces special fund George and Mary Ann also had the Big Rock Garden assessed. The city decided to also purchase the Big Rock Garden, but resulted in outcry regarding an inflated assessment. In response, George and Mary Ann donated the entire proceeds of the sale back into the Big Rock Garden and part of the interest to the Whatcom Community Foundation.
Today, like us at KMRE, the Big Rock Garden is maintained primarily through volunteer support. The group of volunteers supporting the Big Rock Garden are called Friends of Big Rock Garden Park and support the mission “to inspire an appreciation of the arts and natural environment by showcasing high-quality outdoor sculpture and offering engaging programming in a unique Pacific Northwest setting.” The Big Rock Garden features a new seasonal sculpture every May.
My personal review of the Big Rock Garden includes a bummer that they don’t allow dogs but a real plus that they have really nice bathrooms. I attempted to go to the Big Rock Garden three times before actually getting to experience the serenity that is the Big Rock Garden. First I went with my dog, second I went when they were closing and finally got in during lunch. Below are pictures of the Big Rock Garden.