Follies in the Garden: Ornament, Narrative, and Architectural Delight

Wednesday, April 29
General Society Library
20 W 44th Street
6:00pm: Reception
6:30pm: Panel Discussion

Join the ICAA and The Garden Conservancy for a special lecture exploring the fascinating world of follies: those whimsical, often fantastical structures that enliven gardens and landscapes. In this panel conversation, moderated by Caroline Slaten, Horatio Joyce, Kerry Dean Carso, and James Carter will delve into the rich tradition and evolving role of follies in garden and park design, examining how these architectural elements bring narrative, ornament, and imagination into outdoor spaces.

From temples and towers to sculptural forms and pool pavilions, follies blur the line between architecture and landscape. They can anchor a garden visually, offer framed views, evoke memory, or introduce a sense of play and surprise. Without strict rules or functional constraints, follies invite creativity and expression, serving as both landmarks and storytelling devices within the garden.

Through historical examples and contemporary projects, the panel will consider how these structures connect people to place, and how they continue to shape our experience of the designed landscape today.

Brought to you by the Bunny Mellon Curricula at the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art. The ICAA is very grateful to the Gerard B. Lambert Foundation for its generous support of this program, along with the Bunny Mellon Curricula Sponsors:

Lead Sponsor: Hollander Design Landscape Architects
Continuing Education and Public Programs Sponsor: Charlotte Moss

Thank you to our generous sponsors:
Lead Annual Public Programs Sponsor: RINCK
Seasonal Public Programs Sponsor: Dell Mitchell Architects
Seasonal Public Programs Sponsor: Hyde Park Mouldings