Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Sculpture in the Gardens

"Dreamweaver" by Vikki Blazeley

Out in country NSW, they are racing to get the best sculptors from the region to show their works in a new annual event, Sculptures in the Garden. This year the inaugural exhibition will run over 6 weeks to coincide with Wine Week and National Field Days in Orange NSW, two other well-known and established events.

Hugh and Libby Oldham of Jayes Gallery, owners of a city styled art gallery located at Molong have joined forces with regional vignerons, Ross and Helen Harrison of Orange Highland Gardens to develop what can only be described as a treat. These people have all opted over recent years to make a tree change and they have brought to Orange and Cabonne Country, their skills from city living.

The works of some of the regions finest sculptors will be set in the beautiful gardens and vineyard established by Ross and Helen over recent years and overlooking the vistas of Mt Canobolas and the valleys beyond. A fabulous setting and a great day out!

“Sculpture in the Gardens” will run from Saturday October 10 to Sunday November 22 and entry will be free. There will be cool climate wines to be tasted at the cellar door but bring your picnic baskets along as you will want to stay longer and enjoy a leisurely stroll around the vines and gardens as well as look at what country sculptors can devise.

Judging by the response, it is anticipated many regional sculptors and potters of note will have their artworks on display and for sale. Arrangements can be made to freight the works to your own gardens should you wish to take the opportunity to buy at country prices what could be excellent investments. Visitors will be invited to participate in People’s Choice Voting to select the best and most impressive work.

Ross and Helen Harrison started work on their 50 acres. The property was formerly an apple and pear orchard in 2004. At the time it had just one tree, very few native birds and no earthworms.

Their first priority was to establish the vineyard and this endeavour took a year from the planning phase to planting of the vines. Next they turned their attention to the gardens and these photos show the stunning results. In 2008, the Harrisons received two awards for their gardens…best new garden and best commercial garden.

And as they say “a picture is worth 1,000 words” so with Spring upon us, visitors to the cellar door at Orange Highland Wines and Gardens at Nashdale can view photos which show the growth and development of the gardens over just 3 to 4 years.

An event that designed to please, and with something for all the family, the Harrisons and Oldhams invite you to come and enjoy yourselves and help to ensure this event becomes an annual affair.