IOn Community - Parks and Places Information

Avant Garden

Location: SW Corner of Westlake
Hours: 7AM - 10PM

On the SW corner of Westlake, the view from Avant Garden is one of the prettiest lake views. The Amphitheater, two footbridges, sculpture and the lake make a pretty backdrop for any small gathering.

There are several benches and tables within the park, making it conducive to an impromptu game of chess. The low walls to the surrounding raised beds can also serve as 'seating' for a small audience.

The park has been home to several I'On Traditions - including the annual Stewcook and I'Onissimo concerts. It is especially beautiful on the 1st Sunday each December, to view the Giving Lights of I'On (luminaries) that sparkle all around the lake.

'Herons in Flight' is a triplet of sculpture installed in the corner of Westlake near Avant Garden, within the reeds. The birds were crafted by John Grady Doyle, a local student-artist from the College of Charleston, for the inaugural 'Sculpture in the Park' show. The herons were eventually purchased by members of The I'On Trust, because it looked like they belonged right there!

Avant Garden was formally named and dedicated in 2008, on the 10th birthday of I'On, honoring the developer, Vince Graham. A plaque was placed to mark the occasion and name of the park.