Updated on Oct. 15, 2024
A piece of art can transform an entire landscape or create an inviting scene. Browse yard art ideas from a seasoned gardener to get inspiration to take your lawn from drab to fab.
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The best yard art ideas are those that inspire you. As a gardener and interior designer with more than 20 years of experience, I know a thing or two about how design and the outdoors mesh well together.
Whether you’re creating a zen garden, an English garden, a country vibe or a sleek and contemporary outdoor space, adding art to your landscape adds interest, but more importantly, it should bring you joy.
First, look at your outdoor space from different angles and a visitors point of view, then ask yourself some questions. Where is the eye drawn? Is there a focal point? Is there a path pointing the direction, and does there need to be one? Or is your space a blank slate?Â
Anyone can go to a big box store and pick up a metal bench that looks exactly like everyone else’s on the block, but with a little hunting you can find a fun and functional piece of art. Luckily, we’re here to help. The goal in choosing art for your yard is to reflect your style and create a balance of shape, style, color and height. Read on for a list of products and yard art ideas to inspire you.Â
This heavy-duty Steel Obelisk comes in your choice of eight colors and three sizes to fit the scale of your space. The handsome sculpture will look stunning with or without climbing plants. Leave this functional art piece, which doubles as a bird cafe, in the yard to add interest no matter the season.
Wind chimes add a sonic beauty and a sense of serenity to your garden. The Temple Bells hanging chimes are an artful expression with a perfect pitch: Shoppers love the delicate and soothing sounds it delivers. Now, the only thing your zen garden needs is a hammock.Â
When it comes to garden decor ideas, lighting is like jewelry—a sparkling final touch. The Stargazing Hanging Light is an enchanting bauble that comes to life at night. The large blue metal ball adds color to the yard during the day while it soaks up the rays to make its magic at night.Â
Nurture your sense of innocent wonder and joy with this silhouette Dandelion Girl garden stake. Place her in front of your hedges, next to a building or in front of your plants for a contrasting background. She’s sure to make you smile whenever you cross her path.
The Divine Patroness of Gardens Statue is hand-crafted and cast in a weather-friendly resin. As a result, she’s a lightweight yet durable beauty—an important factor for yard art ideas.Â
And as the guardian of your garden (say that three times fast), she deserves to be put on a pedestal. This compatible option (also from Design Toscano) is available in three heights and is a classic all-around plinth for use as a side table, a plant stand or an art display.
Classic gardens have sundials or armillary spheres to pay homage to the skies. This metal armillary will withstand the seasons for backyard beauty all year long. The Celestial Garden Armillary stands at 43-½ inches high and 31 inches wide. Consider putting it on a pedestal or plant stand to make a statement.
This Grand Peacock sculptural bench looks beautiful from every angle. It’s made from oxidation-resistant coated metal for a long life outdoors. Add some gorgeous outdoor pillows and put it in a place of honor for all to see. This love seat combines art, beauty and function for a multi-purpose yard art idea.
A water fountain is a beautiful way to add art to your yard. This illuminated Buddha Fountain will bring a sense of calm to your sanctuary. It stands 32-inches high and can be placed on a pedestal for added height. Even though it’s crafted to look like stone, this fountain is made of resin so it’s easy to move indoors for the winter. The light is built into the unit creating a focal point at night, too.
Bird baths are obvious yard art ideas. They are nice water features to have in your backyard, with the added bonus of providing for the wildlife. This Summers Splash pick is cast in a lightweight weather-resistant resin and hand-finished to classic perfection. This one will make you and the birds happy.
This pair of large bird statues are graceful and strong. Hand-crafted and cast in bronze, these herons will withstand the elements forever, while still maintaining a timeless look. Adding these beauties to your koi pond or poolside is a natural fit because they’re also piped for water (just add a pump for each one).Â
For a contemporary and maintenance-free yard art idea, add these hand-painted Metal Agave Plants. Use them to create a funky border, add color to your space or to add some texture among your plants. The hand-crafted sculptures come in eight colors and two sizes at an affordable price—making them one of our favorite cheap landscaping yard art ideas.
Add a pop of color and whimsy to your yard with these custom art pieces. These versatile and original porch signs can be hung, leaned or staked (hardware is included). Choose from a variety of sizes, shapes and colors. Or, have the artist create a personalized design to bring your yard art ideas to life. Each cherished wooden porch sign is hand-painted and triple-sealed for weather resistance.Â
For a twist on the myth, this fun metal gothic dragon statue adds whimsy and personality to your yard. At 23-inches long and 17-inches high, Cheddar the cheesy dragon begs for attention. Adopt this adorable creature and welcome him into your home.Â
We love the versatility of metal privacy screens. Outdoor panels can create a focal point or background for a cozy corner. Hang them on an exterior wall as weather-resistance sculptural wall art or use it on the stand and plant a living wall. With a variety of patterns and colors to choose from, it’s easy to find one to suit your style.
Use vertical space to add a lush look to your patio or deck. These sophisticated gold and white wall mount planters create a contemporary living wall—just add your favorite flowers. Made with durable iron, this three-piece set brings high style to your outdoor space.
Tuck a gnome in a tree or hang him on a fence post to surprise your guests. Camouflaged in earth toned faux-bark, this little guy is made of durable resin for outdoor or indoor use. These garden gnomes are so cute and so affordable, you’re going to want to grab an extra as a gift.
Looking for yard art ideas that really make a statement? The realistic hand-painted Saddle-Up Horse Bench is sure to please people of all ages—and be in high demand for selfies. Nothing will make an impression quite like having a horse in your backyard. The best part about owning this animal: it’s care-free.
Weighing in at only 82 pounds, this sculptural stallion can easily be moved with two people and includes mounting plates for secure installation. It’s made of high-quality resin and reinforced with fiberglass for a 400-pound weight capacity. If horses don’t warm your heart, Design Toscano also offers unicorn, cow, dinosaur and bear benches.
Consider height and color with the flowers and accessories you choose. Will they detract from your art or enhance it? How will it look in the middle of an existing flower bed? Or should your art stand alone? A row of bushes is a nice backdrop to help art pop. As in floral design, use the thriller, filler, spiller concept if you want plants around your art piece.Â
Size and scale matter in yard art, too. If your piece is dwarfed by the landscape, it won’t have as much impact. That doesn’t mean you need large pieces everywhere; you must simply strive for balance. Tuck smaller art pieces around plants and let large items take center stage.Â
Durability and construction are considerations, especially in the winter. Bronze, stone and metals can withstand the elements better than lightweight resin or wood. Protecting outdoor furniture and art from inclement weather helps with longevity, so consider whether pieces will need winter storage.
Sheri Kaz has over 30 years of gardening experience. She planted her first garden when she was a child growing up on a Midwest farm. She also has experience in interior design, where she helps her clients with exterior designs, including hardscapes and gardens. Sheri also enjoys helping homeowners solve problems while creating functional and beautiful spaces indoors and out. As an avid product tester, Sheri reviews dozens of home and lifestyle products each month for Family Handyman, Reader’s Digest, and Taste of Home.
To find the best yard art ideas, the team researched and gathered inspiration from outdoor spaces we loved. From there, we sought garden experts or a team to learn about the best brands from which to purchase yard art. Then, we compiled a list of the best items and tips for our readers. We also scoured through shopper reviews on each selection to ensure it’s an excellent purchase.
When looking for garden art, stick with colors like red, orange and yellow. These look striking and stunning compared to green grass and plants around your space. The bright shades will also take your eyes away from anything in your yard you don’t want to draw attention to.
If you plan to use multiple garden pieces, plan out your space before placing your sculptures and decor. Try placing abstract pieces towards the front to look the best from all angles, then fill in the rest around the focal piece.
The best way to support yard art is to use garden staples and fill hard and hollow plastic decorations to ensure they don’t blow away. For additional safety, you can also install security monitors if you have more expensive yard art.
