When exploring the captivating landscapes of Cornwall, a visit to the picturesque town of St Ives is an absolute must. Nestled within this coastal gem lies a true artistic treasure: Trewyn Studios, now known as the Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden and Museum. This enchanting destination invites you to immerse yourself in the world of Dame Jocelyn Barbara Hepworth, one of the most prominent English modernist artists and sculptors of the 20th century.
In 1939, Barbara Hepworth, along with her family, made the decision to call St Ives home. It was within the walls of Trewyn Studios that she found solace, creativity, and the inspiration to shape her artistic legacy. Today, this historic studio stands as a testament to her vision and artistic prowess.
The transformation of Trewyn Studios into the Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden and Museum was a testament to the artist’s desire to share her work with the world. With immense generosity, she gifted the studio and its remarkable collection of sculptures to the nation, entrusting the care of her artistic legacy to the esteemed Tate Gallery.
As you step into the museum’s garden, you are greeted by a haven of natural beauty, lovingly developed over the years by Barbara Hepworth herself. Here, the interplay between art and nature is palpable, as sculptures find their place amidst carefully nurtured plantings. Barbara Hepworth had an innate understanding of how her sculptures interacted with the changing light, and she purposefully positioned them throughout the garden to create an ever-evolving artistic experience.
Wandering along the paths that wind through the Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden, you are enveloped by a sense of serenity and artistic wonder. The sculptures, meticulously placed and thoughtfully integrated with their surroundings, become an integral part of the natural landscape. Each sculpture invites contemplation, evoking emotions and connections with the human form and the world that surrounds us.
The beauty of the garden lies not only in the magnificent sculptures but also in the lush vegetation that thrives within its borders. Vibrant flowers and verdant foliage serve as a vibrant backdrop, enhancing the visual appeal of the sculptures and creating a harmonious blend of art and nature.
As you explore the garden, you’ll come to appreciate the profound connection between Barbara Hepworth’s art and her surroundings. Her sculptures, characterized by smooth curves and intricate forms, invite touch and interaction, embodying her belief that art should be accessible and tactile. The garden becomes a living testament to her artistic philosophy, inviting visitors to engage with the sculptures on a personal level.
A visit to the Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden and Museum in St Ives is an immersive experience that transports you into the creative realm of a true visionary. It is an opportunity to witness the legacy of an artist who found inspiration in the natural beauty of Cornwall and who, through her sculptures, continues to touch the hearts and minds of those who wander through her garden. Allow the beauty of the sculptures and the tranquility of the surroundings to awaken your own artistic sensibilities and leave you with a deep appreciation for the profound impact of art in our lives.
She wished that her Trewyn Studios become a museum so it was gifted to the nation and placed in the care of the Tate Gallery. Many of the sculptures in the garden are still in positions where she placed them originally.
It is a lovely garden developed over the years she placed some of her sculptures. She loved having them around and claimed they changed with the light. She remained there all her life and died in a small fire at the location. She said everything I make is to touch and people do.
Beautiful plants and paths guide you through the garden where you can view all the magnificent sculptures.
