Set in the gorgeous 18th-century estate of Bretton Park, Yorkshire Sculpture Park is home to some of the finest sculptures in the country. Since being established in 1977, the YSP has been growing both in size and reputation, and is now considered to be one of the world’s most important open-air museums. Sculptors from all over the world have held exhibitions at the park, but it’s most famous for its collections by local sculptors, Barbara Hepworth and Henry Moore.
There are two of Hepworth’s outdoor works at the YSP: Square with Two Circles and The Family of Man. The first, created in 1963, is an exceptional example of the artist’s much celebrated carving skills. As the sunlight changes throughout the day, the sculpture takes on a whole new appearance – an illustration of how many of the works at the park are perfectly framed by their environment. The Family of Man, crafted seven years later, consists of nine individual bronze sculptures.
The collection of open-air bronze sculptures by Moore is among the largest in Europe. Like Hepworth’s, Moore’s radical and avant-garde sculptures are designed with the environment very much in mind. Particular highlights include Draped Seated Winner, Upright Motive No1 and Large Two Forms.
In addition to the acres of open-air collections, the YSP is also home to the 18th-century Grade II listed St Bartholomew’s Chapel, which has been renovated as a gallery. The chapel has been home to some remarkable sculptures over the years, not least James Lee Byars’ The Angel. Currently showcasing in the chapel is a major exhibition by Bill Viola.
With 60 open-air sculptures occupying more than 500 acres of idyllic countryside, the Yorkshire Sculpture Park is a great day out for all ages.
For full details visit:http://www.ysp.co.uk/