In a new series, we’re asking the ROSL team to recommend places all over the UK for our members to visit. In the first addition, Sara Scott-Rivers, PA to Dr Diana Owen, talks about her recent visit to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park.
What made you want to visit the Yorkshire Sculpture Park?
I was inspired to visit as there was an exhibition of work by textile artist, Mister Finch. He creates exquisite creatures like badgers, rabbits, hares, mice, and weaves them into his own Yorkshire folklore tales. In this exhibition, his work centres around the story of The Wish Post, which is about a magical kingdom of woodland animals whose job it is to collect and sort other creatures’ wishes. Then, for one special day each year, the animals have a chance to see if their wishes are granted. It’s truly magical.
Tell us about the park itself
The location is huge (500 acres) and the natural setting of trees and parkland is a wonderful backdrop for the huge variety of sculptures on show (everything from Moore, Miro and Frink to modern works by Ai Weiwei). I particularly liked Nicki de Saint Phalle’s dazzling mosaic buddha and Sophie Ryder’s giant hares. There really is something for everyone. Even if you live at the other end of the country, this place is worth the journey and will not disappoint. For me, this is a benchmark in presenting art in an approachable way.
How much does it cost?
There is no admission fee. If you come by car, you pay to park. If you cycle or walk there, it is totally free. London could learn a thing or two from this! Parking for a car, for a whole day, is £11 (so if you are a family group, this is tremendous value). There are plenty of places to sit if you want to take your own picnic, although the café is excellent and not over-priced.
Who would you recommend it to?
Everyone! It is wheelchair and pushchair-friendly. I saw all ages there, from new-born babies to people in their 90s. It is the ideal place to expose children to art at an early age, there are crayons and paper around to encourage kids to draw what they see.
Honestly, I cannot praise YSP highly enough. It is well thought-out, not intimidating to anyone who thinks they don’t like art, and has to be the best value day out in the entire country.
