In January, a new sculpture was installed in the Karoo South African Gardens at Ventura Botanical Gardens (VBG). The site was made possible in part by a generous donation from a VBG supporter, who envisioned a work of art inspired by the surrounding landscape and spectacular coastal views. After a careful search, VBG Executive Director Dr. Joseph Cahill and the donor commissioned a piece by Central Coast–based kinetic sculptor Nate Tyler. “The sculpture seamlessly elevates the range and endangered plants in this part of the garden,” said Dr. Cahill.
For more than two decades, Nate Tyler has been creating sculptures alongside his father, renowned kinetic sculptor John Tyler. His works blend delicate balance and movement with durable materials such as stainless and Corten steel, engineered to withstand coastal winds. Before committing full-time to sculpture, Tyler traveled the world as a professional free-surfer, filmmaker, and editor. He now works from his studio in Cayucos, California, where he lives with his wife and family…