In January, a new sculpture was installed in the Karoo South African Gardens at Ventura Botanical Gardens (VBG). The site was made possible in part by a generous donation from a VBG supporter, who envisioned a work of art inspired by the surrounding landscape and spectacular coastal views. After a careful search, VBG Executive Director Dr. Joseph Cahill and the donor commissioned a piece by Central Coast–based kinetic sculptor Nate Tyler. “The sculpture seamlessly elevates the range and endangered plants in this part of the garden,” said Dr. Cahill.
For more than two decades, Nate Tyler has been creating sculptures alongside his father, renowned kinetic sculptor John Tyler. His works blend delicate balance and movement with durable materials such as stainless and Corten steel, engineered to withstand coastal winds. Before committing full-time to sculpture, Tyler traveled the world as a professional free-surfer, filmmaker, and editor. He now works from his studio in Cayucos, California, where he lives with his wife and family.
From the gardens’ inception, incorporating art among its 107 acres of botanical plantings has been a priority. VBG has commissioned numerous permanent pieces and hosted many temporary exhibits. In 2026, the gardens plan to feature the annual In Bloom Photo Contest: Garden Stories in the spring, the 3rd annual Plein Air Paint Out in April, and an interactive hummingbird exhibit in the summer. Visitors are encouraged to return often, as there is always something new to explore.
VBG is a public benefit nonprofit dedicated to creating a world-class botanical garden that promotes conservation, education, and community enrichment. The gardens celebrate plants from the world’s five Mediterranean climate regions and offer spectacular 180-degree views of the California coast and Channel Islands. The organization also provides outdoor community gathering spaces, training and research opportunities, and educational programs covering horticulture, botany, sustainability, and more. For more information, visit www.VenturaBotanicalGardens.com, follow @vbgventura on Instagram, or join the conversation on Facebook. Ventura Botanical Gardens is located at 567 Poli Street behind City Hall.
