Up the shady tree-lined Stillman Street between Second and Third streets in South Beach lies a small raised-bed garden nestled between the sidewalk and the Caltrans parking lot's chain-link fence.
The tiny garden is full of flowering plants. Yellow blossoms on a wispy vine, colorful snapdragons, delicate white feverfew flowers and bright orange candelas. The scent of lavender, rosemary and mint fills the air.
This bountiful plot, a sliver of public land, is maintained by Mary February—who resides in a Victorian right across the street. As we photographed her little garden, February descended for a brief chat. Here's what we learned about the urban gardener, who also happens to be a "tattoo collector."
Q: What exactly is a tattoo collector, and how old were you when you got your first tattoo?
A: A tattoo collector is a person who sees their ink not just as individual pieces but rather as a curated collection. I got my first tattoo when I was in my 20s.
Q: What kinds of tattoos have you collected?
A: I have a nice collection of hearts on my stomach and a beautiful colorful garden on my back. I like this "Lady" and this "Tramp" on the sides of my neck. I've been collecting tattoos for about 30 years. At this point I'm now just collecting some more hearts and memorials with the spaces I have left.
Q: Tell us about the garden.
A: This garden, affectionately known in the neighborhood as Mary's Garden, has been here for about seven years. Its a memorial garden mostly, for friends that have passed away, for our veterans and homeless folks to enjoy. The orange flowers are for the Giants.
For the most part, people have left the space alone or have brought plants and bulbs to add to the beauty of the garden. We have only had two occasions where we've seen someone cut off some of the flowers, but for the most part, people just seem to enjoy the garden when they walk by.
And I enjoy watching the garden grow and blossom from my window.
Q: Any advice for someone who is contemplating getting a tattoo?
A: Yes, look carefully at the artists work and at his/her portfolio. If you see someone with a nice piece, ask them who did it. It's important to develop a rapport with your artist, then trust them to give you the best ink ever.
