Scott Lindberg of Aptos installs an outdoor sculpture Monday at Sierra Azul Nursery & Garden as part of the “Sculpture Within: Garden and Community” exhibit.

Just across from the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds on East Lake Avenue lies Sierra Azul Nursery & Garden, a verdant oasis nestled among farmlands.

Visitors to the vast, two-acre Mediterranean garden are afforded a break from the hustle of the busy street here, it seems impossible that dozens of cars and trucks are rushing by just a few dozen feet away.

The tranquility of the spot is part of the reason the Pajaro Valley Arts Council and Sierra Azul owner Jeff Rosendale hold the annual sculpture exhibit at the 14-year-old garden.

“It’s a very accommodating place for art,” said Rosendale. “As the garden got more mature, it became evident that it needed something else. There’s a trend happening, and I think we’re part of it.”

“Sculpture Within: Garden and Community” will officially open May 29, and will feature 46 artists. The pieces are made from metal, ceramic and stone.

This will be the third year the PVAC has held its sculpture show in the garden. Organizers estimate last year’s show brought about 2,500 visitors. This year, artists from Santa Clara County will be included, the first time the event has included outside talent.

The work includes that of internationally renowned artist Richard Deutsch, who won 2007 Santa Cruz County Artist of the Year. It will also feature the work of 15 sculptors who are new to this venue from Santa Cruz and Santa Clara Counties, and pieces by 31 other sculptors.

On Monday, the artists were busy with forklifts, hand carts and wheelbarrows installing their pieces, tucking them among the greenery. In places, sculptors were putting final touches on their pieces. The installation work is expected to conclude Wednesday.

“(Watsonville) is a happening place, and people don’t realize it,” said curator Judy Stabile. “There’s so much to do and I love it.”

The sculpture show lasts from May 29 through Oct. 22. A reception will be held June 14 from 4-7 p.m., and will feature several free artists’ workshops.

The official opening June 15 will be marked by a Father’s Day picnic. Visitors may bring their own picnic lunch to enjoy in the garden. The day will also feature free talks and workshops.

All events are free and open to the public.

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The sculpture exhibit will run from May 29-Oct. 22 at the Sierra Azul Nursery & Garden, 2660 E. Lake Ave. in Watsonville.

For information, visit www.pvarts.org or www.sierraazul.com, or call Rosendale at 728-2599 or Judy Stabile at 724-8919.

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*Photos by Tarmo Hannula*

(Published in 5/20/08 edition)

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