New Materialist Ecopoetics in Ian Hamilton Finlay’s Little Sparta: The Garden as a Living Text

This article explores Ian Hamilton Finlay’s Little Sparta through the lens of New Materialism, presenting the garden as both an aesthetic space and an active agent that redefines human-nature relations. Central to this study are concepts like agential realism, vibrant matter, and intra-action, which highlight dynamic interactions between the garden’s installations and their surroundings. Rather than being solely shaped by human intervention, the garden evolves through natural processes—seasonal shifts, weather changes, and plant growth—making it a co-creative, living text. The study emphasizes Little Sparta’s role in challenging anthropocentric views by merging poetry with natural elements, thereby advocating a holistic understanding of ecological and cultural narratives. Through the integration of art and nature, the garden dissolves boundaries, illustrating interconnectedness and fostering environmental empathy. As a space of continuous interaction, Little Sparta positions itself as an ecopoetic landscape that prompts visitors to reconsider their role within ecosystems. This approach not only enhances aesthetic and ecological engagement but also demonstrates how New Materialist principles can transform our perceptions of both art and the environment.