HERTFORDSHIRE'S ASHRIDGE HOUSE ANNOUNCES PREMIER SCULPTURE GARDEN

Running from 31st July - 24th September 2023, The Sculpture Garden is a celebration of contemporary and traditional art featuring internationally acclaimed artists such as Diane Maclean FRSS, Giles Penny ARBS and Jenny Pickford. Set within 190 acres of Grade II* registered grounds that incorporate formal gardens and fairy-tale woodland, the exhibition is an opportunity to go on a journey of discovery. 

From sculptures that nestle humbly into their natural environment to bold pieces that juxtapose the summer scenery, the exhibition explores the natural world and our place within it. The rich heritage of Ashridge House, from its historic garden designers to its humanitarian uses, are reflected by the sculptures in the exhibition. The sculptors use their medium to manifest these topics and invite visitors to reflect. Penny Hardy will be exhibiting 'Sculpture for Change' raising funds for UNICEF creating an opportunity for a lucky visitor to win this dynamic artwork by donating. 

Ashridge House is particularly excited to exhibit a new work from Diane Maclean especially designed for the Fernery at Ashridge House. 

Featured sculptor and environmental artist Diane Maclean commented: “Capturing the ephemeral in substantial form is an ongoing challenge. The weather, the effects of it, the mineral content of our planet, and the shapes that occur in nature, have all been subjects of my work. I see the materials themselves as an important element in its creation. I try to bring their best qualities into view, in sculptures and installations that reflect light, are suspended, have moving parts, sound and colour, and are therefore not static and unchanging.”

Over 40 artworks on display

Visitors of The Sculpture Garden at Ashridge House can expect to see over 40 sculptures on the trail around Ashridge House and gardens. Each sculpture has unique QR signage for visitors to access more insight into the exhibiting artists and the artwork itself. 

Sculptures are available for purchase or to commission.

Guests can also make the most of their visit to Ashridge House with a trip to the Bakehouse Café or Acres Restaurant.

Ticket prices*:

£12 - adult

£7 - 12-16 yrs

FREE - under 12s and Ashridge Annual Garden Members

*Tickets available at www.ashridgehouse.org.uk/whats-on  

Dates: 31st July - 24 September 2023

Opening times: 9am-5pm daily (last entry 4pm)

Venue address: Ashridge House, Ashridge, Hertfordshire, HP4 1NS 

Website: www.ashridgehouse.org.uk 

ENDS

To download high-res images, click here. 

About Ashridge House:

Steeped in 700 years of history and once a royal residence to Henry VIII and Princess Elizabeth I, today Ashridge House is an award-winning meeting, events and wedding venue. Set in 190 acres of beautiful, landscaped gardens, Ashridge House is located close to Berkhamsted in Hertfordshire, only 30 minutes north of London and within easy reach of all major transport connections.