The Garden Paradise is an illusive construct of memory created from experience and a dream of perfection. It is a glimpse of the world that is infinitely variable and individually selected to include only those aspects most desired. Imagined in perpetual bloom, it is a focus of unattainable longing. It provides pleasure to the senses and the soul and helps to define the self.

The Harbourfront site is located on nineteenth century Toronto landfill. Broken crockery is often unearthed in such locations. In old neighbourhoods shards emerge unchanged as soil is disturbed with renovation and garden cultivation. Although broken, the charm of their floral patterns remain, but they are also reminders of once chosen, impossible ideals. At the Harbourfront site people would often sift through the shards as at an archaelogical dig, seeking connection in familiar patterns—a mother’s or grandmother’s china—a small, sharp reminder of home. I needed to regularly replenish the broken shards as members of the public collected both mementos of the past in their own ‘paradise’ and souvenirs of their day at Harbourfront.

  China Bower was removed in 2010 because of the need for more parking. I would love another opportunity to plant a paradise garden.