Grounds for Sculpture

Even though Fall officially begins in less than a week here in my part of the world, it arrived early yesterday with a hint of cool things to come.

The sky was undecided on clouds for the day so it was a mixed bag of overcast areas and small puffy or wispy ribbons of clouds. Only a light jacket was needed to be comfortable as the sun felt warm, not hot. And I was on my way to Grounds for Sculpture, located in Hamilton Township, Mercer County, New Jersey.

This 42-acre sculpture park and museum is located on the former site of the New Jersey State Fairgrounds. Founded in 1992 by John Seward Johnson II (of Johnson & Johnson) the venue was intended to be dedicated to promoting an understanding of and appreciation for contemporary sculpture by organizing exhibitions, publishing catalogues, and offering a variety of educational programs and special community events.

In July 2000, it became a nonprofit organization open to the public. The sculpture park counts on the support of visitors, art patrons, donations, and grants to continue its growth as an outstanding center for the arts.

Comprising over two hundred and forty large-scale contemporary sculptures, the venue includes works by Johnson, as well as renowned and emerging American and international artists. The park's outdoor collection grows by fifteen sculptures annually. Outdoor works are selected to augment indoor exhibitions, to add new artists to the sculpture park, and to complement the landscaped environment.

What follows are only a few of the pictures I took while walking around for about three hours soaking up the day and the art.

Before reaching the park's entrance,

you'll see sculptures like this along the road.

And this.

Time Reversing by Brower Hatcher

stainless steel, brass, bronze, copper, iron

Only part of a sculpture, which incorporates a continuous mist.

The Eye of the Beholder by Seward Johnson

cast bronze

The Nine Muses by Carlos Dorrien

granite

On Poppied Hill by Seward Johnson

cast bronze & aluminum

One of my favorites.

It's easy to miss as it sits on a hill surrounded by tall grasses.

Three Figures by Marion Held

wood, stoneware

Depression Bread Line by George Segal

cast bronze

Henry Moore in a Sheep Meadow by Red Grooms

cast bronze

Another favorite. I love the movement.

As if she's on a mission.

Mesteno by Luis Jimenez,

fiberglass

At the Visitor's Center be sure to pick up a park guide where you'll find a two-page spread of the facility with the following: Please note all sculptures throughout the park have plaques that indicate whether or not they may be touched. Some of the sculptures may not be touched in order to protect the surface finishes and for your own safety. We ask you touch only the designated sculptures with care and respect. The collection and exhibitions at Grounds for Sculpture contain art works that may be of a challenging, sensitive, and/or mature nature. Please be aware and consult GFS staff for advice if you have specific concerns. 

I apologize for not being able to name all the art in the photos. There is also a slim chance the ones I remembered and have named, may not be correct.

You can spend hours at Grounds for Sculpture. Art is everywhere so be sure to look into small forested areas and bamboo stands as you never know what you'll find inside.

Enjoy!!

Namaste
Chris