Beyond the walls of a gallery – an art trip unlike any other
Imagine a living, breathing art gallery, where nature and art work in harmony to create a truly magical and unique experience. Magnificent sculptures are placed amongst mature trees and architectural plants, whilst gently moving water provides a sense of calm and an accompanying backdrop to the wildlife that calls this outdoor gallery home. The Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden in Ockley, Surrey has proudly exhibited an ever changing collection of contemporary sculpture within 10 acres of landscaped gardens for 35 years, and has played host to hundreds of schools. In a unique environment, students are given the opportunity to explore their creativity and that of the exhibiting artists on may levels. Seeing and touching the sculptures gives students and pupils a rare experience and an appreciation of different textures, shapes, forms and media – all within a natural setting. The Sculpture Garden welcomes school visits from the first week in April to the last week in October. There are around 200 sculptures to see in the Garden, in a huge variety of styles and materials. The Sculpture Garden provides a safe place to study and is relevant to various subjects across the curriculum, not just Fine Art. Other relevant subjects include Art & Design, Design and Technology, History of Art, Photography, Landscape Design, Leisure & Tourism, and Environmental Studies. Ofsted believes that learning outside the classroom is an essential element of a broad and balanced curriculum, and recommends that schools bring learning to life through compelling learning experiences. Bookings for groups no larger than 30 pupils with a suitable number of adults should be made in advance and visits take place on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10.30am till 5pm. Smaller groups (under 15) are also welcome to visit on Thursdays and Fridays, when the general public will be in the Sculpture Garden. A recce visit is highly recommended. We advise that at least one adult accompanies 8-10 pupils, with a higher ratio for those with special needs. Unlike a normal gallery the art is accessible for visually impaired students, whom are welcomed to touch and explore the surfaces of the sculptures on display. A unique school trip that will inspire and capture imaginations, and be remembered for years to come. Please email hannahpescharsculpture@gmail.com or telephone 01306 627269 to discuss any queries, or to book your visit. www.hannahpescharsculpture.com.