Meaning: The quote "I came to these mediums through having the garden, and of course, people who have designed gardens have always worked in collaboration, and never made their own inscriptions" by Ian Hamilton Finlay encapsulates the essence of the relationship between art, nature, and collaboration. Ian Hamilton Finlay was a Scottish poet, writer, and artist known for his innovative and thought-provoking works that merged language, visual art, and nature. His quote reflects his deep connection to gardens as a medium for artistic expression and his belief in the collaborative nature of artistic creation.

Finlay's reference to "these mediums" suggests that he sees the garden as a form of artistic expression, akin to the mediums of poetry, visual art, and sculpture. For Finlay, the garden is not merely a collection of plants and landscaping but a canvas on which he can create his art. This perspective aligns with the concept of "gardenscapes" or "gardens as art," where the design and arrangement of plants, pathways, and structures are treated as an artistic composition.

The notion of collaboration is central to Finlay's quote, as he emphasizes that people who design gardens have always worked in collaboration. This idea challenges the romanticized notion of the solitary artist or designer. Instead, it acknowledges the contributions of multiple individuals, including landscape architects, horticulturists, and craftsmen, in the creation of a garden. This collaborative approach mirrors Finlay's own practice, as he often worked with other artists, architects, and craftsmen to bring his artistic visions to life in various garden installations and landscapes.

Furthermore, Finlay's mention of "never made their own inscriptions" speaks to the idea that the act of creating a garden is not about imposing one's individual ego or signature onto the natural landscape. Instead, it is about integrating artistic elements that harmonize with the existing environment and engage in a dialogue with nature. This approach reflects the principles of environmental art and land art, where artists seek to create works that are in tune with the natural surroundings and evoke a sense of place.

In the context of Finlay's broader body of work, this quote resonates with his interest in the intersection of language, art, and nature. He often incorporated text and inscriptions into his garden installations, using words and typography as integral components of the visual and spatial experience. This fusion of artistic expression and natural elements exemplifies Finlay's unique perspective on the role of the garden as a medium for multi-disciplinary artistic exploration.

Overall, Ian Hamilton Finlay's quote provides insight into his philosophical approach to art, gardens, and collaboration. It underscores the interconnectedness of artistic mediums and emphasizes the importance of working in harmony with nature and others in the creative process. Through his innovative garden installations and poetic interventions, Finlay has left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire artists, designers, and garden enthusiasts to explore the boundless potential of gardens as living works of art.