‘it is the visitors to the park who create the bridge’s meaning’ - Mike Caulfield[3]
This is where the garden shines. Beyond making us slow down, it’s a space that doesn’t try to box you in, encouraging personal exploration through its multi-linear nature. Following a hyperlink shouldn’t resolve your question, but introduce a new angle or contradiction you previously hadn’t even considered[3]. Like Mike Caulfield states:
“Every walk through the garden creates new paths, new meanings, and when we add things to the garden we add them in a way that allows many future, unpredicted relationships”[3]
The garden made me realise exploring questions could at times be more valuable than the answer. It forces you to visualise the ‘path’ you’re taking, akin to exploring a forest and being met with three trails. You never know for sure, but you try with the best of your abilities to find the ‘correct’ path and in the process you start feeling more familiar with where you are. In the case of a digital garden, you are essentially creating a model[3] of your journey, strengthening your thoughts in the process. Its a personal space where you decide the boundaries.[2]