The Ecology Shrine
Promoting Respect for Nature
(Click on any image to enlarge it)
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The approach to the Ecology Shrine begins with a long, leafy tunnel of Hazelnut trees that opens into a spacious, park-like garden. The visitor's eye is soon drawn to a 6 meter high tree sculpture Diana Graham carved from the remains of a redwood tree that had been struck by lightning. |
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As one proceeds down an avenue of blue hydrangeas, the three Hogsback Mountains, the forested Tyume Valley and the plains stretching all the way to the coastline come into view. In the foreground the carved cement enclosure of the Ecology Shrine with its large oil paintings and mosaics, fits perfectly into the surroundings and looks as if it has always been there. | |
| Diana Graham shows each visitor around the Ecology Shrine explaining as she does so, the inspiration behind this unique art installation, which she built in 1995. |
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The Ecology Shrine is definitely not linked to any one particular religion. As the name suggests, this beautiful place is imbued with a sense of homage. Over the years it has become one of the major tourist attractions in the area. Diana says that it seems to generate a life of its own with meditations, concerts, weddings, art exhibitions, etc. Diana also runs environmental art workshops for scholars. |
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| The Ecology Shrine has won several international and local awards including the Green Dove Award from the United States, a Mail and Guardian Green Trust Award, and an Eastern Cape Premier's Award. |
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The Ecology Shrine is open to visitors:
On Fridays,
Saturdays, Sundays & Wednesdays. |
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