Sculpture Garden Parkes Pl, Parkes, Australian Capital Territory 2600

Welcome to the Sculpture Garden, located in Parkes, Australia. Situated between the National Gallery and the beautiful shores of Lake Burley Griffin, our establishment is a must-visit for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Designed by Harry Howard and Associates, in collaboration with James Mollison, the Gallery's first Director, the Sculpture Garden was meticulously planned to showcase the Gallery's extensive collection of sculptures. The garden's layout and pathways mirror the triangular architecture of the main building, creating a harmonious blend of art and nature.

As you explore the garden, you will be surrounded by native Australian plants specifically chosen for their ability to withstand Canberra's harsh winter conditions and hot, dry summers. The garden is divided into different sections, each representing a different season. The Winter garden, adorned with warm winter slate and winter flowering acacias, is located close to the building and features early figurative works of art. The shady Summer garden, nestled beneath the Casuarinas and near the marsh pond, provides a cool retreat. The Spring garden, with its vibrant display of spring flowering Grevilleas and Acacias, leads you closer to the lake. Unfortunately, the Autumn garden was never fully realized.

One of the highlights of the Sculpture Garden is Fujiko Nakaya's fog sculpture, Foggy wake in a desert: An ecosphere, which operates daily from 12:30pm to 2pm. This immersive experience is not to be missed.

Our collection also includes notable sculptures such as George Baldessin's Pear - version number 2, Lisa Roet's Orangutan Foot, and Tracey Emin's When I sleep 2018, a large-scale bronze sculpture that permanently rests in the garden.

Furthermore, we are proud to feature commissioned works by renowned artists. Linda Marrinon's Woman in jumpsuit, the first in the Art Makers commission series, can be found within the Sculpture Garden. Additionally, James Turrell's Within without is a captivating Skyspace, one of his largest and most complex installations to date.

In 1996, Mary Eagle, the National Gallery's Senior Curator of Australian Art, approached Fiona Hall for a commission, marking the beginning of an exciting collaboration.

To celebrate our 40th Anniversary, Australian artist Lindy Lee has created her first immersive public sculpture, Ouroboros, exclusively commissioned for the Sculpture Garden.

As you explore the Sculpture Garden, take a moment to appreciate the rich cultural heritage of the Kamberri/Canberra region. We acknowledge the Ngunnawal and Ngambri peoples, the Traditional Custodians of this land, and recognize their continuous connection to culture, community, and Country.

For more information, please contact us at 61 2 6240 6411 or email us at [email protected]. Don't forget to sign up to receive art updates in your inbox.

Join us at the Sculpture Garden and immerse yourself in the beauty of art and nature.