Discovering secret gardens

Through his work, photographer Perry Mastrovito has the privilege of visiting properties that have a wide variety of gardens, in various regions of the province. On foot or by bike, he is also always on the lookout for unusual flower settings. He reveals his discoveries in his seventh book, Private Gardens of Quebec, volume 2.

Danielle Bonneau
Press

Over the 160 pages, it takes readers through 41 gardens of various styles, laid out in town, in the suburbs and in the countryside, from Laval to Portneuf, passing (among others) through Lévis, Acton Vale, Saint-Placide, Sainte-Adèle, Terrebonne and Montreal. The sites are not necessarily huge. The proof ? A 250 square foot (23.3 m^⁠2) looks great on the page dedicated to it. A real oasis has also been created behind a townhouse in Anjou, Montreal. The latter is entitled to several pages to better understand what characterizes it, like other places captured on the spot, surprising by their natural beauty and their scale.

Mr. Mastrovito does not have a green thumb himself. “I cut my grass and I trim my hedge, then I think it’s not bad,” he admits, laughing. What some do in their garden, on the other hand, is incredible. Every year, they change something in their flower beds. I sometimes visit gardens three or four times over a period of three or four years, and a lot has changed, always with the aim of improving the garden. I can not believe it. ”

This faculty of marveling at the sight of the colossal work carried out by passionate people, who open their doors to him, emerges on reading the short paragraphs which accompany the 300 photos. He often takes care to explain his approach and to specify the names of the plants. It also draws attention to the elements (shelters, benches, sculptures, walkways, ponds, waterfalls, etc.) which stand out and enhance the landscaping. He gives tips and even reveals how he got certain effects, aware that he will answer the questions of many amateurs.

Specializing in residential architectural photography, private gardens and Quebec landscapes, he has notably devoted two volumes to old houses in Quebec. He obviously did this book with those who were going to leaf through it in mind. He writes simply, in French and in English, as if he were addressing friends. We imagine him observing different flowers before finding the desired shot. The moment could not have been better to launch this volume in vibrant colors, where greenery reigns.

Private Gardens of Quebec, volume 2

Perry mastrovito

Broquet editions

160 pages