I’ll be the first to admit, I’m becoming a bit of a sculpture addict, so I am always excited when I hear word of a new sculpture exhibition. But I think I’m also becoming a bit of a sculpture snob. I do like to be able to enjoy a piece of art in surroundings that are both calm, serene and fitting, otherwise, you don’t really get a chance to absorb and reflect on what the work is about. This is one of the reasons that I was super delighted and more than a little intrigued to stumble across some new sculptures at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens recently. It felt like the perfect setting with plenty of space to just enjoy what are some very tactile and thought-provoking sculptures. And now there’s more good news for lovers of form.
The Surrey Sculpture Society comes to Sussex
The Surrey Sculpture Society is launching their summer exhibition at the Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens. The society has exhibited at many renowned venues in the last 25 years but this will be the first time that it’s staged a major exhibition at Leonardslee.
The event opens on 30th July and runs until 5th September 2021, with the sculpture trail nestled in the 240 acres of the Leonardslee estate. Seven lakes, parkland, and woodland created by Sir Edmond Loder, the great Victorian plant hunter and previous owner of Leonardslee make up the grounds.
There will be over 80 diverse sculptures strategically located within the grounds, created by both established and emerging artists. The sculptures will be in a wide range of materials including bronze, resin, glass, metal, wood, stone, ceramic, and found objects.
Surrey Sculpture Society’s Chair Nick Baker commented:
“Leonardslee has embraced outdoor sculpture on a grand scale and invited the SSS to devise a trail that not only shows off the art, but also complements the many beautiful areas of this fantastic venue. We will have dedicated stewards on hand to answer any questions regarding the sculptures and all pieces will be available for purchase should visitors fall in love with one or two!”
Leonardslee Estate Manager Adam Streeter commented: “We are delighted to welcome the Surrey Sculpture Society to Leonardslee, which is gaining a reputation as a major arts venue in the South of England, especially as a venue for outdoor sculptures.”
And SSS Leonardslee Exhibition Manager, Abby Martin added: “Our exhibiting artists are all looking forward to seeing visitors immersed in the beautiful surroundings and wildlife at Leonardslee Gardens as they follow our sculpture trail. Maybe meeting up with friends and family for an overdue catch-up, able to appreciate human company again, as expressed by many of our sculptures including Seamus Cuddihy’s “Side by Side” and Marion Ironmonger’s “Yakop-(Embrace).”
Although this exhibition is now closed, it is an annual event and we look forward to welcoming it next year. However, if you’ve enjoyed this post about sculpture at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens, you may also like:
Stunning Sculpture at Leonardslee, West Sussex
A Miniature World At Leonardslee Dolls House
Stunning New Rooms at Leonardslee, West Sussex
Spellbinding “Leonardslee Illuminated” in West Sussex
For details of entrance fees and visitor information: visit: www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk
