Visiting the Cloisters was a phenomenal way to conclude the NYC class. Not only were we, as a group, reacclimated to greenery and nature, in preperation for our return to the Pacific North West, but we also gained exposure to the ways in which landscape can influence an experience both historically and contemporarily. The Garth Gardens arranged throughout the Cloisters gave insight not only into the how a monk might interact with nature but also how today we use landscaping to influence people’s behavior and mood. The gardens also fit well with Sheila’s talk of an evolving interest in landscape architecture demonsrating that it does indeed take an artistic eye to weave latice, sculpt pear trees, and create an overall beautifully functional garden.
-J.L. Gazabat