A MONTH-LONG celebration of trees is to take place at one of the area's most most unique attractions.
Sculpture by the Lakes at Pallington near Dorchester will be hosting world renowned nature experts and artists at the special exhibition dedicated to trees with exclusive artwork, workshops, and talks from world famous nature specialists this autumn.
ARBOR: A Month of Trees begins on September 27 and continues until October 28.
The brimming event schedule includes an expert talk from the ex-head of arboretum at Kew Gardens and globally recognised tree expert, Tony Kirkham MBE.
A series of exclusive live art demonstrations and workshops will be hosted by recognised names including Channel 5 Watercolour Series expert judge and Sky Arts Landscape Artist of The Year semi-finalist, Lisa Takahashi.
Garden director at Sculpture by the Lakes, Monique Gudgeon, said: “Trees are integral to Sculpture by the Lakes, inspiring incredible pieces of art while playing a critical role as habitat creators and protectors of the environment.
“The purpose of ARBOR is to raise awareness of the importance of trees and their conservation, bringing their many qualities to life through a diverse range of engaging and interactive activities.
"The exhibition involves our entire park, from the gallery to our landscaped gardens, and aligns with our continual celebration of the natural world and the creativity it fosters.”
As part of the event’s expert talk series, Dr McGavin explores ‘The Life in our Trees’, while Mr Kirkham recounts his journey around the globe discovering rare tree species. Best-selling author, Jonathan Drori presents his latest instalment ‘Around the World in 80 Trees’.
Visitors can also learn a variety of intricate nature crafts at the event, including stone carving, charcoal burning, and jewellery making using tree seeds and leaves.
Artists showcasing their talents include plein air painter, Stephen Bithell; wood engraving specialist, Robin Mackenzie; and traditional pencil artist and illustrator, Katy Harrald.
Simon Gudgeon, Sculptor and Owner of Sculpture by the Lakes added: “Sculpture by the Lakes was born out of my perpetual fascination with wildlife and the natural world, so lends itself perfectly to this important exhibition.
“It’s a pleasure to host so many talented individuals at our event who share this passion, with each committed to preserving and enhancing the environment. We’re also proud to be supported by charities including The Tree Council and Dorset Wildlife Trust."
With more exclusive events due to be announced in the coming weeks, the full schedule for ARBOR can be found here https://www.sculpturebythelakes.co.uk/events/
Tickets to access the full ARBOR exhibition across the entire sculpture park can be purchased via the Sculpture by the Lakes event page as a general all day entry pass (10am to 5pm, £14.50) or afternoon pass (from 2pm to 5pm, £12.50).
Various demonstrations are also free of charge, with others available to purchase separately.
Ticket purchase is not required for sole entry to The Makers Yard at Sculpture by the Lakes, which will also host elements of the ARBOR exhibition.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here