Location

Overview

Founded in 1992 by artist and philanthropist J. Seward Johnson II, Grounds For Sculpture has evolved into one of America's premier destinations for outdoor sculpture. The park is a magical realm where contemporary sculpture, horticulture, and architecture converge to create an unforgettable experience. Spread across 42 meticulously landscaped acres, Grounds For Sculpture presents more than 270 works by both established and emerging artists. The collection includes monumental pieces by internationally renowned sculptors as well as intimate works tucked into garden nooks. What makes this park unique is its theatrical presentation - sculptures are integrated into elaborate landscape designs featuring ponds, pathways, pavilions, and seasonal plantings. The park's founder, Seward Johnson, is celebrated for his hyper-realistic bronze figures depicting everyday people in everyday situations. His works are scattered throughout the grounds, often surprising visitors with their lifelike quality. You might encounter a businessman sitting on a bench, a woman gazing into a pond, or workers on a break - each sculpture inviting you to pause and engage. Beyond Johnson's works, the collection spans diverse artistic styles and materials. George Segal's ghostly white plaster figures create haunting scenes. Magdalena Abakanowicz's mysterious bronze figures march across the landscape. Kiki Smith's powerful female forms explore themes of nature and the body. Isaac Witkin's colorful abstract forms punctuate the gardens with geometric energy. The park's landscape design is equally impressive. Inspired by Monet's gardens at Giverny, winding paths lead visitors through distinct garden rooms, each with its own character. The Water Garden features lily pads and aquatic plants surrounding bronze figures. The Woodland Walk offers shaded contemplation. The Gazebo Garden provides formal European-style landscaping. Seasonal plantings ensure the park looks different throughout the year, with spring bulbs, summer perennials, and fall foliage creating ever-changing backdrops for the sculptures. Grounds For Sculpture also houses several indoor galleries showcasing rotating exhibitions, smaller works, and experimental installations. The museum building features a contemporary art gallery, while the historic Domestic Arts Building presents textile and decorative arts. Dining is an integral part of the experience. Rats Restaurant, named after the impressionist painting 'The Boating Party' by Renoir, offers French-inspired cuisine in a whimsical setting filled with Seward Johnson's recreations of impressionist paintings as three-dimensional sculptures. The more casual Peacock Café provides lighter fare with garden views. Educational programming includes artist talks, sculpture workshops, garden lectures, and family activities. The park actively commissions new works and rotates installations, ensuring there's always something new to discover even for repeat visitors.

Grounds For Sculpture is a 42-acre sculpture park and museum featuring over 270 contemporary sculptures displayed within beautifully landscaped gardens, creating an immersive art and nature experience.

Notable Artworks

What Makes This Park Special

Art & Features

Art Styles: Contemporary, Figurative, Abstract, Impressionist Inspired

Planning Your Visit

Contact Information

🎨 Current Exhibitions

✨ Special Access Programs

🏛️ Facilities & Programs

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