Barbara Hepworth’s extraordinary sculpture garden
An extraordinary place, that became the home and garden of one of the UKs greatest contemporary sculptors, Barbara Hepworth .
A contemporary of the renowned sculptor Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth was married in the 1940s to Ben Nicholson, who is recognised as one of Cornwall's and England's most influential artists. During this pivotal time in her life, she purchased the Trewyn house and studio in 1949, located in the picturesque area of St Ives. This charming house became the creative space where Hepworth initially worked on some of her greatest pieces, and it was there that she would eventually live after her separation from Ben. Hepworth continued to reside in Trewyn until 1975, the year when she met a tragic end in a devastating fire. Although all of her sculptures miraculously survived, many of her treasured drawings and writings were tragically lost in the flames.
I was lucky enough to visit Trewyn Studio during a recent stay at my great friends Paula and Richard in nearby Rosevidney.
It is a truly inspiring garden and home that captivates all who visit and leaves a lasting impression on their hearts and minds. Barbara and her talented curators at The Tate Gallery have successfully managed to create an imaginative and harmonious space that beautifully combines the best of West Country hardy exotics with the extraordinary architectural forms of Barbara’s remarkable sculptures, resulting in a truly unique and enchanting environment.
Throughout the garden, a diverse array of plants was thoughtfully chosen according to the artist’s personal preferences and aesthetic vision, though they also beautifully complemented the sculptures in a striking and harmonious way. I particularly liked the creative use of elegant bamboo, vibrant anemones in an array of colors, impressive and towering huge yuccas, and resilient aloe vera, all of which collectively emphasised the lush, tropical atmosphere that thrives so well in the unique and inviting Cornish climate.
I was seeing the garden in September, which is always a pleasant time of year, but if you are able, I’d strongly suggest planning a visit in the beautiful Spring season or early Summer. During these times, the vibrant colours and lush greenery will be truly amazing and well worth experiencing.
Nevertheless, the thoughtful juxtaposition of the unique sculptures and the carefully selected plants truly worked exceptionally well together to create a harmonious and visually appealing outdoor space that invites relaxation and enjoyment for all who visit. This combination not only enhances the beauty of the garden but also encourages a sense of peace and tranquility, making it an ideal retreat from the busyness of everyday life.
My favourites? Well, I absolutely love the stunning piece “Spring 1966,” as it captures the essence of the season beautifully and evokes a sense of renewal and hope. Of course, I can't overlook the impressive and massive walk-through installation known as “Four-Square 1966.” It's truly a remarkable sight to behold, drawing visitors in with its intricate design and scale! However, to be completely honest, I found myself in awe of all the diverse sculptures showcased in the collection. Each piece has its own unique charm, character, and story that captivates the viewer and invites them to reflect on its meaning.
If you are planning to visit St Ives, this is truly a must-see attraction that should be at the top of your list.
For further details see www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-st-ives/barbara-hepworth-museum-and-sculpture-garden