I have seen this feature in zen gardens, but I didn’t really wonder about its meaning until I came to Japan, where you can find them in or around every Shinto shrine, Buddhist temple or private garden. 

Drawing in ink and watercolor on watercolor paper. 5X7" matted to 8x10”.

I usually draw a few of each illustration instead of making prints, as it allows my customers to get an original drawing at an affordable price, which end up being less than what a print would cost. And each is still unique.