Seven artists have transformed a woodland garden into an open-air art exhibition at one of the UK’s finest country homes.
Arley Hall, near Knutsford, invited the artists to draw inspiration from The Grove before positioning their sculptures amongst the flowering shrubs and exotic trees.
Among the new additions are a life-size stag made of willow, a mosaic butterfly, three greyhounds and a full-size cow with her calf.
Arley’s general manager Steve Hamilton said he hoped the sculptures and art in The Grove would provide a new talking point for visitors.
He said: “All art is subjective, but we hope the pieces will stimulate debate amongst visual art enthusiasts whilst others will just marvel at the skill of local craftsmen.
“We’re delighted with the range and quality of the pieces that have been produced and they have really added to the visitor experience at Arley.”
Angela Sidwell, from Linnards Lane in Wincham, has created two pieces called Flesh and Blood – a full-size cow with calf made from wire and potato sacks – and Whistle and I’ll Come to You which takes the form of three greyhounds made from wire, fabric and fabric hardener.
She said: “Arley provides an incredible backdrop to display my work so it is a great honour to be asked to be involved in this project.”
Angela’s artwork will sit alongside work by six other artists who have used metals, glass, sandstone and wood to create their pieces.
Among them is Andrew Worthington, from Kelsall, who has four sculptures on display, which will be seen by thousands of visitors over the summer.
He said: “I have created the sculptures to give the feeling that they have always belonged in the garden and have evolved naturally with the landscape.”
In total there are more than 30 pieces in the outdoor exhibition and some are for sale.
Visitors to Arley Hall will be handed a map of The Grove on arrival to guide them around the exhibits.
As well as life-size animals there are also ornate, colourful abstract pieces as well as a beautiful bench.
Arley will be hosting the exhibition throughout the summer. As well as The Grove there is also the renowned double herbaceous border – believed to be the first of its kind in England – kitchen and walled gardens as well as a magnificent hall.
“The sculptures are an exciting addition to what we already offer and we hope the public support these local artists by visiting and possibly even buying their work,” said Steve Hamilton.
Arley Hall is near Knutsford and is signposted off the A556 near junction 19 of the M6. For more details go to www.arleyhallandgardens.com.
