Sculpture by the Lakes

Late Night Shopping | Wednesday 26th November
2025-11-26 17:00 - 19:30 UTC | Sculpture by the Lakes, Pallington Lakes, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8QU, United Kingdom
Planning to join us for our second Late Night Shopping evening?

As the evenings draw in, we’re opening our doors a little longer to share some seasonal warmth and togetherness.
Browse The Store, The Pantry and The Gallery, and sip on a glass of mulled wine as you soak up the golden glow of the Maker’s Yard at dusk
Then warm up and refuel with a delicious, hearty meal at The Kitchen.
We’re offering our flavour-packed, homemade Chilli Con Carne, served with all the traditional sides (think fluffy rice, cooling sour cream, and crispy tortilla chips!). It’s the perfect, satisfying reward after a memorable night out.
Wednesday 26th November
Last orders in The Kitchen at 7.30pm.
Click here to contact The Kitchen and book your table

Ceramic Demonstration by David Pointer
2025-11-22 11:00 - 12:00 (Europe/London)
Join Us for a Live Pottery Demonstration with Ceramic Artist David Pointer
We’re delighted to welcome David for a special live demonstration of his ceramic techniques, presented alongside a display of his newest works featured in our Winter Show.
During the event, David will walk visitors through the key stages of his process for hand-building spherical sculptures in preparation for barrel-firing. You’ll be able to watch him demonstrate coiling, the use of formers, burnishing, and the application of terra sigillata—offering a rare opportunity to see the artistry and precision behind his sculptural ceramics.
The demonstration will take place next to the gallery in the free-to-enter Makers Yard at 11am.
Don’t miss this chance to meet the artist, gain insight into his methods, and experience his creative practice up close.
All welcome, please wrap up warm!

Late Night Shopping | Thursday 20th November
2025-11-20 17:00 - 19:30 UTC | Sculpture by the Lakes, Pallington Lakes, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8QU, United Kingdom
This is the night we host the long-awaited book launch

Join us as the owners of Sculpture by the Lakes celebrate the release of their new book. This is your chance to meet Simon and Monique, purchase your copy, and have it personally signed.
After exploring what’s on offer, make your way to The Kitchen where we are serving up our irresistible, freshly-made Fish and Chips, prepared with the finest ingredients and served piping hot.
It’s the ultimate relaxing treat before heading home.
Thursday The 20th Of November
Last orders in The Kitchen at 7.30pm.
Click here to contact The Kitchen and book your table

Discover the Hidden Fungi of Sculpture by the Lakes
2025-11-05 10:00 - 2025-11-20 12:00 UTC | Sculpture by the Lakes, Pallington Lakes, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8QU, United Kingdom
Discover the Hidden Fungi of Sculpture by the Lakes
Join us for a fascinating two-hour workshop and guided walk with Andy of Jurassic Coast Mushrooms to explore the secret world of fungi thriving within our gardens and grounds.
Andy is a passionate expert with over a decade of experience in fungi identification and co-founder of the Dorset Foraging and Identifying group. He will share his wealth of local knowledge to help you see the woodland in a completely new light.

What You Will Explore
This engaging walk is perfect for curious beginners and anyone looking to sharpen their identification skills. The session will focus on observing and identifying different fungi species native to Dorset, enhancing your understanding of their essential role in the local ecosystem.
Enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of the lakes and gardens while learning how to spot a variety of fungi in their natural habitat, guided by Andy’s expert eye.

Workshop Details
We are offering two dates for the workshops, choose from November 5th or November the 20th, both 10am – 12pm
Duration: Each session is two hours long.
Price: £25.00 per person (includes park entry and the guided walk).
Refreshment: A hot refreshment from our pantry is included with your ticket.
Expand your knowledge of fungi species and connect with nature in this unique experience!
Book your spot today

Rest, Relax and Reset Day Retreat
2025-10-25 09:30 - 2025-11-29 16:30 (Europe/London)
In the chaos of our daily lives, we’re constantly being pulled in a million different directions and stretched so thin that our stress levels are too high and we end up in a persistent state of fight or flight. We crave some rest and relaxation, so that we can feel restored and rejuvenated and this is what this retreat is all about! We will combine various modalities to help you calm the mind and the body and teach you some that you can do at home to help you reduce stress and relax.

SOMA Breathwork

Our retreat begins with an invigorating SOMA Breathwork session. The SOMA Breath Energized Meditation Routine is a 1-hour long workshop combining movement, chanting and breathwork all guided with uplifting, music. The Energized Meditation Routine is designed to release tension from the body, boost your mood, and be a super-effective breathwork meditation.

Sharing Circle and Cacao Ceremony

The Sharing circle provides a space for us to come together, share our experiences, and connect with each other.Cacao is a perfect plant for anxiety, as it brings natural stress relief. By directly connecting to our nervous system, it triggers dopamine and the endorphin, ‘Anandamide’, two essential neurotransmitters that make us feel blissed out and loved up.

Introduction to Meditation

An introduction to meditation and mindfulness practices that can help calm the mind.

Lunch

A light and delicious vegetarian lunch will be provided using many ingredients from our own kitchen garden.

Yoga Nidra

Yoga Nidra is a guided meditation rooted in ancient yogic traditions that follows a systematic relaxation process. Researchers who have studied it have found that the brain goes into a unique state where it is asleep, while we’re actually awake and conscious. Apart from being deeply relaxing, being in this state also unlocks several mental, physical, and emotional benefits.

Sound Bath

To end the day Simon will create a sound journey to lead you deeper into a state of contemplation and relaxation. A sound bath is typically a way of managing anxiety, soothing the nervous system, and blocking all the ideas and thoughts out of your consciousness as you connect with your body. Sound enters the healing equation from several directions: It may alter cellular functions through energetic effects; it may entrain biological systems to function more homeostatically; it may be calm the mind and therefore the body; or it may have emotional effects, which influence neurotransmitters and neuropeptides, which in turn help to regulate the immune system—the healer within.

Tea and Dates

Before you leave, we will serve a treat of herbal tea and dates so you can quietly contemplate your experiences and set your intentions for your continued wellbeing.

Reserve your place here:

Live Charcoal Demonstration with Finn Campbell-Notman
2025-10-18 12:00 - 15:00 (Europe/London)
Join us this Saturday in the Gallery at Sculpture by the Lakes for a captivating live charcoal drawing demonstration by Finn Campbell-Notman ARCA, winner of Sky Arts Landscape Artist of the Year 2023.
This demonstration offers a rare opportunity to witness his creative process up close and gain insight into how he brings his compositions to life.
Born in England in 1970, Finn grew up in rural Norfolk and Somerset and studies at The Royal College of Art. Over the years he has lived, worked, and exhibited internationally – in Barcelona, Andalusia, Brussels, San Francisco, Berlin, and Dublin and is now based in Dorset. His paintings and drawings are held in numerous private and permanent collections worldwide, including The Royal Maritime Museum, Cannon Hall, and the House of Grimaldi in Monaco.
Finn’s work is currently on display in our ‘Work on Paper‘ exhibition, which runs until 8th November, celebrating the expressive potential of paper in fine art.
Admission to the demonstration is free. No booking required – simply drop into The Gallery between 12pm and 3pm to enjoy this inspiring afternoon of art in action.

Work On Paper Demonstration
2025-10-11 11:00 - 15:00 (Europe/London)
We’re delighted to be welcoming Penny back to the gallery for a demonstration of her cut paper collage work, marking the Opening for the new Work on Paper exhibition.

Penny’s creativity uses cut paper in collage and creates images that are both botanically accurate and have strong visual appeal. She starts with careful observation of the subject plant, making sketches, colour notes and recording the rhythm and energy of the growing plant. The process of assembly for the image involves cutting and layering plain papers in a complex, subtle way to achieve an effect reminiscent of 1930s silk screen prints, but with strong contemporary appeal. The natural world and particularly the glorious Dorset countryside are a constant source of inspiration which she loves to share. Her most recent work explores Dorset landscapes in collage, sometimes including native wildflowers but often just focusing on the rich contrasting colours and shapes of the marvellous Dorset countryside.
Come along to the gallery, watch and chat with Penny as she designs, cuts, paints and assembles the pieces, gradually building up the composition until the landscapes and plants become vividly three dimensional.

11/10/2026 – 11am – 3pm

Work On Paper Exhibition
2025-10-11 10:00 - 2025-11-08 17:00 (Europe/London)
Jemma Appleby #2238-2 Charcoal on paper

Gallery by the Lakes presents Work on Paper, a celebration of the expressive possibilities of paper as both medium and muse.

The exhibition brings together distinctive contemporary artists who work on, or with, paper: Penny Brown’s intricate botanical collages, Tianyin Wang’s expressive charcoal drawings created with the absence of the line, esteemed printmaker Lisa Takahashi’s colourful and expressive prints, and Jemma Appleby’s extraordinary charcoal drawings where she seeks harmony between architecture and trees, shadow and light. Work on Paper also features a selection of beautiful groups of small works by Debra Royston, a return to the gallery following the success of her ‘instinctive and intuitive paintings’ earlier in the year. We are delighted to announce Work on Paper will be showing Finn Campbell-Notman as the 2023 Sky Arts Landscape Artist of the Year winner we are thrilled to be introducing his work to you in this exhibition.

Julie Oldfield Copper Burning Demonstration
2025-09-16 14:00 - 16:00 (Europe/London)
Julie says “Weathering and burning drew me to experiment with metal sheets and the effects of chemistry, heat and patination foundations that I then develop with traditional art materials. The metal I’m using for this event will be copper. I use different metals for different effects. My tool is a bonfire where I’ll be burning the copper sheet. Then I use acids and alkalis, grinders, scrapers, pastels, and natural weathering leaving my paintings outside to develop opening up surface possibilities. Working with science and nature in this way often gives unexpected results, especially with the uneven heat of the fire and exposure.”

The demonstration is free with entry to the Sculpture Park and will take place in the Riverside arena, running for approximately 2 hours. Limited places so please email the gallery to confirm your attendance.

Contact

For more information on Julie Oldfield, Please click on the gallery button.

Gallery

Elemental Echoes
2025-09-13 10:00 - 2025-10-04 17:00 (Europe/London)
‘Serene Light Beam by Julie Oldfield’

‘Short Kingfisher Plaque by Adam Binder’
Gallery by the Lakes presents Elemental Echoes, an exhibition celebrating the unique work of painter Julie Oldfield and sculptor Adam Binder.

United by a shared sensitivity to the natural world, Oldfield’s luminous paintings on copper capture shifting light, atmosphere, and memory, while Binder’s delightful bronze sculptures distil the beauty and fragility of wildlife into timeless form. Together, their work creates a dialogue between metal, texture, and spirit; inviting visitors to reflect on the enduring resonance of nature translated through two distinct yet harmonious artistic voices. Showing alongside the sculptures of Sculpture park co-founder Simon Gudgeon.

If you would like to view works by our other artists please let us know as we can arrange viewings by appointment.

Springing To Life
2025-08-14 10:00 - 17:00 (Europe/London)
We’re delighted to be welcoming Penny back to the gallery, for another fascinating demonstration of her cut paper collage work on the 14th of August.

Penny creates images that are both botanically accurate and have strong visual appeal. Starting with careful observation of the subject plant, she makes sketches, colour notes and records the rhythm and energy of the growing plant. She assembles the image, cutting and layering plain papers in a complex, subtle way to achieve an effect reminiscent of 1930s silk screen prints, but with a strong contemporary appeal. The natural world and particularly the glorious Dorset countryside are a constant source of inspiration which she loves to share.

Mind, Body & Soul
2025-08-02 10:00 - 17:00 (Europe/London)
Sculpture by the Lakes is delighted to announce a series of vibrant one-day pop-up markets held within its picturesque Maker’s Yard this summer. Each market will offer a unique theme, showcasing a diverse range of local traders and artisans.

Mind, Body & Soul focusses on holistic wellbeing and mindful living. This market offers a serene and enriching shopping experience dedicated to nurturing all aspects of self. Visitors will discover a diverse array of stalls featuring everything from comfortable and stylish yoga apparel and accessories, like mats, bags, and water bottles, to a wide selection of natural and alternative health products. Explore stalls offering aromatherapy oils and diffusers, herbal remedies and teas, handcrafted soaps, bath bombs, and natural skincare products. Discover sustainable living products like reusable containers, eco-friendly cleaning supplies, and zero-waste accessories.

You’ll also find vendors selling items related to mindfulness and meditation, such as singing bowls, meditation cushions, crystals, and journals. This market provides a tranquil and welcoming atmosphere, encouraging visitors to explore different paths to wellness through the diverse products available. Whether you’re seeking to enhance your physical health, cultivate inner peace, or simply discover new ways to prioritize self-care, “Mind, Body & Soul” offers a valuable opportunity to discover new products and resources dedicated to holistic wellbeing.

Our pop-up markets are free to enter. If you wish to make a day of it and visit the Sculpture Park whilst you are here tickets are £15.

Calling all traders: We are always on the lookout for vendors specializing in wellbeing products, yoga wear, alternative health products, and all wellness-related items. To apply for a stand please fill out the application form below.

Basic information for potential traders:
The event runs from 10am to 5pm
The Trader’s fee is just £10 admin cost which you pay for within the form on application.
Set up is 5.15pm until dusk the day before or from 7am on the day of the event. Full setup information will be sent out nearer the event.
Free entry for visitors

Moroccan Feast
2025-08-01 18:30 - 22:00 UTC | Sculpture by the Lakes, Pallington Lakes, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8QU, United Kingdom
Friday 1st August | From 6.30pm

£38 per person | Booking essential

An evening of fire, flavour and fantastic company.

Join us for a relaxed summer evening at Sculpture by the Lakes. Enjoy all the senses of a Moroccan feast as dinner is cooked slowly and soulfully over open flames.

Begin with a table of vibrant Moroccan mezze to share. Then enjoy traditional tagines, authentically prepared over the barbecue, followed by something deliciously sweet to end your evening.

This is a unique culinary experience designed to nourish both body and soul.

Take your seat, unwind, and let the evening unfold.
More Information to follow

Summer Radiance & Joy
2025-07-12 10:00 - 17:00 (Europe/London)
Retreat with me for a day of seasonal practices where we aim to slow down, connect back to nature and nourish ourselves: body, mind and spirit.

Together, we’ll explore the Fire element, the Heart, and how to navigate the season of summer with more ease & joy.

You can expect
Easy Qigong for heart opening and emotional clearing.

Nourishing restorative yoga aligned with the summer season.

Gentle heart calming acupressure and essential oils.

Restorative Yoga Nidra guided mediation.

Alchemy Crystal Bowl sound bath.

Wholesome food, treats and herbal tea’s paired to the summer season.

We will flow gently through the day harnessing the joy & yang energy of the Summer season, helping us find harmonious flow and inner balance.

Arrival & choice of refreshment 10.00am

Welcome and Centering practice 10.15am

Qigong 10.30am

Qigong is an ancient practice that blends movement, breathwork , self massage and intention to enhance overall health and vitality.
Gentle Qigong to nourish the joints, release stress & tension & energise the body. In this seasonal Qiflow practise we will harness the yang energy which peaks during the Summer season. The session will include breathwork, self massage, healing sounds and mindfulness in motion through slow movements. We will connect back to nature by working with the elements around and within us restoring balance & harmony.
This beautiful practise will take place outside by the stream, weather permitting.

Yoga 11.45.am

Time to slow down and get cosy in the retreat space for a restorative yoga practise. This is a floor-based practice of deliberate stillness for deep conscious rest. This powerful, healing state will reset your nervous system, reduce muscular tension, calm the mind and enhancing energy levels. The morning will finish with a long savasana including a soothing head wrap and eye mask to allowing the body and mind to rest deeply and fully in the moment.

Lunch 1.pm

We will gather for a delicious lunch freshly prepared in the kitchen using lots of produce grown in our garden kitchen. Refreshments and cake is also included along with some free time to be in nature, take a gentle walk, explore the beauty of the lakes and sculptures park or find a quiet place to relax and contemplate.

Heart calming acupressure and essential oils 2.30.pm

Yoga Nidra mediation with Sound immersion 2.45.pm

Yoga Nidra is sometimes referred to as Yogic sleep or NSDR (non-sleep deep rest ). As you settle into the comfort of the props there is nothing to do but rest in the moment as you are guided in a soothing meditation which will flow seamlessly into a gentle but powerful sound bath using alchemy crystal bowls to allow deep relaxation and healing on a cellular level. This soothing sound bath will incorporate different instruments including Alchemy Crystal Bowls, Himalayan Bowls, Wind Gongs, Crystal Bowls, Koshi Chimes, Ocean drum which have a unique ability to relax and calm the nervous system.

4.pm

Our time together with close will herbal tea and sweet treats paired with the season of summer. You are welcome to enjoy the sculpture park and more time in nature until it closes at 5pm.
You will leave feeling truly relaxed & rejuvenated as well as lighter, brighter and more energised, ready to embrace the radiant energy of the Summer season.
The day retreat is an opportunity to gently nourish your whole being & I can’t wait to welcome you.

Jackson’s: Plein Air Day: Sculpture by The Lakes
2025-07-04 10:00 - 15:30 (Europe/London)
Join us on Friday 4th July to see 100 artists working en Plein Air at Sculpture by the Lakes.

In collaboration with Jackson’s Art Supplies, and hosted by Lisa Takahashi, Landscape Artist of the Year Semi-finalist & Materials and Studio Specialist at Jackson’s.
Immerse yourself in a day of artistic brilliance on Friday, July 4th, at Sculpture by the Lakes, where 100 talented artists will capture the beauty of the landscape en plein air, painting amidst the stunning sculptures and serene surroundings of the park. Hosted by the acclaimed Lisa Takahashi, Landscape Artist of the Year semi-finalist and materials specialist at Jackson’s Art Supplies, this extraordinary event, presented in collaboration with Jackson’s, offers a unique opportunity to witness creativity in action. Watch as artists draw inspiration from the interplay of nature and art, creating vibrant works set against the back drop of the sculpture parks breathtaking vistas. Join us for an unforgettable celebration of art, nature and imagination!

Relaxation Saturday
2025-06-28 10:00 - 15:30 (Europe/London)
Escape the everyday and immerse yourself in a rejuvenating Saturday at Sculpture by the Lakes, where art and nature intertwine to inspire serenity. Spend your day wandering through the breath-taking park, surrounded by captivating sculptures and tranquil lakes, allowing the beauty to quiet your mind and uplift your spirit. Combine this experience with a soothing sound bath, designed to melt away stress and restore inner balance. This transformative day will leave you refreshed, reconnected, and ready to embrace life with renewed calm and clarity.

Sound Bath

A sound bath is typically a way of managing anxiety, soothing the nervous system, and blocking all the ideas and thoughts out of your consciousness as you connect with your body. Sound enters the healing equation from several directions: It may alter cellular functions through energetic effects; it may entrain biological systems to function more homeostatically; it may be calm the mind and therefore the body; or it may have emotional effects, which influence neurotransmitters and neuropeptides, which in turn help to regulate the immune system—the healer within.

Choose which sound bath you would like to attend on Relaxation Saturday and spend the remainder of the day exploring Sculpture by the Lakes. We look forward to welcoming you.

Evening Sound Baths
2025-06-09 19:00 - 2025-06-16 20:30 (Europe/London) | Sculpture by the Lakes, Pallington Lakes, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8QU, United Kingdom
We are running a series of evening Sound Baths in The Retreat at Sculpture by the Lakes. These will incorporate different sound instruments including Himalayan Bowls, Wind Gongs, Crystal Bowls, Koshi Chimes, Shamanic Drums, which have a unique ability to relax and calm the nervous system. This will bring your mind into the Alpha and Theta pattern, which is the restful and creative state.

Sound enters the healing equation from several directions: It may alter cellular functions through energetic effects; it may entrain biological systems to function more homeostatically; it may becalm the mind and therefore the body; or it may have emotional effects, which influence neurotransmitters and neuropeptides, which in turn help to regulate the immune system—the healer within.

“Simon’s sound bath was an incredible journey into deep relaxation and healing. At one point, I completely lost awareness of my body—truly profound! His beautiful use of Himalayan singing bowls (my favourites), especially around and over my body, created a profound sense of calm and rest. The integration of various instruments, each serving a unique purpose in the sound bath, left me feeling weightless by the end. I walked away feeling serene, rejuvenated, and completely restored.” – Ali P.

“Simon’s sound bath was a powerful exploration into deep rest and healing. As a facilitator I have experienced many sound journeys, this experience was exceptional. I felt safe, gently held and deeply nurtured.” – Pip T.

“A wonderful serene player, Gentle like a hummingbird…. A man who knows his Singing bowls… Simon respectfully listens to the vibrations of sound and intuitively connects with them… my body floated and I shed a tear of gratitude full of love for the world.” – Dianne G.

Reserve your space here:

Summer show
2025-06-07 10:00 - 2025-09-06 17:00 (Europe/London)
‘Morning Light by Gunnar Tryggmo’

Our Summer Show will run for the months of June, July and August bringing a vibrant and joyful collection of original and edition works, spanning all artistic styles and mediums.
June – Prepare to be captivated by new watercolours from Swedish artist Gunnar Tryggmo, light-filled paintings by Debra Royston and ceramics from David Pointer, both Dorset based and exhibiting in the gallery for the first time. We’re also showing sculpture by gallery artists Marie Ackers, Adrian Bates, Nick Bibby, Nicola Godden, Beatrice Hoffman, Jonathan Loxley, Carl Longworth, Gill Parker, Carol Peace, Don Rambadt and Rachel Stevenson with a charming collection of sculptures from Fred Gordon.

There’s also an opportunity to get up close to Simon Gudgeon‘s Diving Otters, installed in a water feature in the Gallery Courtyard, whilst in the gallery two beautiful Kinetic Kingfishers gently move.

Through July we’ll be showing new work from Nick Andrew, Stephen Bithell, Sasha Constable, John Davey, Will Montgomery and Jane Shaw.

August introduces new works from Penny Brown, Tilia Holmes, Laura Rich and Edward Stone.

A truly eclectic and abundant Summer Show, and one not to miss.

Carol Peace - New Work
2025-04-26 10:00 - 2025-05-31 17:00 (Europe/London)
Flower Carer by Carol Peace

Visitors have an additional week to enjoy this beautiful solo exhibition of renowned sculptor Carol Peace at Sculpture by the Lakes, it runs until 5pm on Saturday May 31st, 2025.

Visitors will have the opportunity to see Carol’s new and popular works in the free to enter gallery and courtyard situated in the Makers Yard. As you arrive look out for her sculpture Tightrope, newly installed in the pond at the entrance next to The Kitchen to accompany the show. There are also larger pieces on display throughout the park.

Carol Peace is celebrated for her beautiful and thought-provoking sculptures, often inspired by the natural world and the human condition. Her work is characterized by its delicate balance of form, texture, and material, inviting viewers to contemplate themes of beauty, fragility, and resilience.

Along with the new works in bronze and resin, there will be a new editioned publication created to share the thoughts and images behind Carol’s inspiration.

We are delighted that Carol will be joining us in the gallery for the Opening on April 26th from 10am, with a personal introduction to her exhibition at 11am and 2.30pm. All are welcome.

Spring Renewal Retreat with Tracey Boast
2025-04-26 10:00 - 16:00 (Europe/London)
Retreat with me for a day of seasonal practices where we aim to slow down, connect back to nature and nourish ourselves: body, mind and spirit. We will flow gently through the day harnessing the joy & energy of the Spring season, offering us the opportunity to calm the mind, soothe the central nervous system & bring body mind and spirit into harmonious balance.

10am – Arrival & choice of refreshment

10. 15am – Welcome and centering practice

10.30– Qigong
Qigong is an ancient practice that blends movement, breathwork and intention to enhance overall health and vitality.
Our morning session will start with gentle Qigong to nourish the joints, release stress & tension & energise the body. In this seasonal Qiflow practise we will harness the rising yang energy of the Spring season. The session will include breathwork, self massage, healing sounds and mindfulness in motion through slow movements. We will connect back to nature by working with the elements around and within us restoring balance & harmony.
This gentle and accessible practise is an invitation to connect body mind and breath, preparing you to receive the powerful benefits of Restorative Yoga.
Please note this practise will take place outside by the stream, weather permitting.

11.45am Restorative yoga
After a comfort break we will get cosy in the retreat space with props and blankets for a floor based practice of deliberate stillness for deep conscious rest. This healing state will reset your nervous system, reduce muscular tension, calm the mind and create space for the breath.
You are invited in this nourishing practice of true self care to rest in long held postures, fully supported with props for the opportunity to find deep and nourishing rest, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety.

1pm Lunch
We will enjoy a delicious buddha bowl lunch freshly prepared using lots of produce grown in Sculpture by the Lakes own garden kitchen. Refreshments and cake is also included along with some free time to be in nature, take a gentle walk , explore the beauty of the lakes and sculpture park or find a quiet place to relax and contemplate.

2.30 pm – Yoga Nidra meditation with Sound immersion
Yoga Nidra is sometimes referred to as Yogic sleep or NSDR (non sleep deep rest ). As you settle into the comfort of the props there is nothing to do but rest in the moment as you are guided in a soothing meditation which will flow seamlessly into a gentle but powerful sound bath, taking you on a sound journey which will incorporate different instruments including Himalayan Bowls, Wind Gongs, Crystal Bowls, Koshi Chimes, Shamanic Drums which have a unique ability to relax and calm the nervous system.

4pm
Our time together with close will herbal tea and sweet treats. You are welcome to enjoy the sculpture park until it closes at 5pm

You will leave with a spring in your step feeling truly relaxed & rejuvenated as well as lighter, brighter and more energised , ready to embrace the vibrant energy of the Spring season.

I can’t wait to welcome you.

Reserve your place here:

Rest & Relaxation Afternoon
2025-04-24 14:00 - 2025-05-15 16:30 (Europe/London)
In the chaos of our daily lives, we’re constantly being pulled in a million different directions and stretched so thin that our stress levels are too high and we end up in a persistent state of fight or flight. We crave some rest and relaxation, so that we can feel restored and rejuvenated and this is what this retreat is all about! We will combine various modalities to help you calm the mind and the body and teach you some that you can do at home to help you reduce stress and relax.

Cacao Ceremony
The Cacao Ceremony provides a space for us to come together, share our experiences, and connect with each other.
Cacao is a perfect plant for anxiety, as it brings natural stress relief. By directly connecting to our nervous system, it triggers dopamine and the endorphin, ‘Anandamide’, two essential neurotransmitters that make us feel blissed out and loved up.

Yoga Nidra
Yoga Nidra is a guided meditation rooted in ancient yogic traditions that follows a systematic relaxation process. Researchers who have studied it have found that the brain goes into a unique state where it is asleep, while we’re actually awake and conscious. Apart from being deeply relaxing, being in this state also unlocks several mental, physical, and emotional benefits.

Sound Bath
A sound bath is typically a way of managing anxiety, soothing the nervous system, and blocking all the ideas and thoughts out of your consciousness as you connect with your body. Sound enters the healing equation from several directions: It may alter cellular functions through energetic effects; it may entrain biological systems to function more homeostatically; it may be calm the mind and therefore the body; or it may have emotional effects, which influence neurotransmitters and neuropeptides, which in turn help to regulate the immune system—the healer within.

Reserve your place here:

Create your own Kitchen Garden
2025-04-23 10:00 - 2025-04-24 16:00 UTC | Sculpture by the Lakes, Pallington Lakes, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8QU, United Kingdom
Embark on a journey into the world of kitchen gardening with our Head Kitchen Gardener ChiChi and trusty assistant Copper the dog. This comprehensive course provides hands-on experience and practical insights to help you create and nurture your own thriving kitchen garden at home. From exploring the garden’s highlights to selecting seeds, engaging in propagation techniques, and learning essential gardening practices, this course equips you with the knowledge and skills for a successful gardening venture. Join us for a day of discovery, delicious garden soup, and a Q&A session, leaving with the foundation to cultivate a healthy and flourishing kitchen garden of your own.

This Course is £120 including tea, garden snacks, lunch, and all sowing materials.

10am – Arrive at Sculpture by the Lakes.
You will meet your course providers, ChiChi and Copper who will take you on a tour of the Kitchen Garden. You will also see and taste what is growing and the highlights at this time of the year.

Session one 10.30-11.30
We will have a look at different components of the kitchen garden from the propagation greenhouse, polytunnel, fruit garden, vegetable and cut flower bed, and herb garden.
We will also look at different areas like a shade area and south facing walls which provide excellent growing conditions for tender plants.

Session two 11.30-12.30
We will come into the polytunnel classroom to do some planning practice on paper. This will help you understand what and when to grow in different seasons to ensure a year-round supply whether grown from pots or from a large allotment garden.
12.30-13.10
Enjoy a delicious garden lunch made with our own Kitchen Garden produce.

Session three 13.10-14.40
We will start choosing what you would like to grow from our seed collection, including vegetables, herbs and flowers. Then we will practice some propagation methods of sowing seeds and pricking out seedlings which you can take home with you
ChiChi will share her favourite varieties and show you how to DIY a simple propagation heating bench, which you can make at home to give your kitchen garden a flying start and enable you to grow tender plants.

Session four 14.40-15.30
ChiChi will show you how to start a No-Dig garden and how to look after your soil as well as some trade secrets on how you can minimize the problem of pests and diseases.
We will plant seedlings out in the garden and cover various ways of protecting them during this vulnerable stage.
Finally, we will look at how to make great compost at home as well as making your own natural feeds to nourish your soil.

Q&A 15.30-16.00
With this excellent foundation of how to start your own Kitchen Garden, ChiChi will then answer any questions you might have and also discuss the future support for creating your own healthy Kitchen Garden.

Course ends. After which you will be free to roam the rest of Sculpture by the Lakes until 5pm.

Reserve your place here:

The Story of The Arborealists - Talk by Tim Craven
2025-04-11 11:00 - 12:00 (Europe/London)
The Story of The Arborealists

We’re delighted to welcome Tim Craven, founder of The Arborealists, to share the origins and evolution of this extraordinary artists’ collective. Surrounded by the 40 works in the show, Tim will reflect on how his own artistic journey and long tenure at Southampton City Art Gallery shaped the collective’s beginnings in 2013. He’ll give insight to the group’s ethos, membership, and their remarkable program of 40 exhibitions across the UK and abroad over the past 10 years, riding the contemporary demand for nature-themed art. Tim will aknowledge the numerous partner agencies, site-specific projects, and venues that have enriched The Arborealists’ operations, as well as recent organisational developments aimed at ensuring the collective’s long-term future.

Running time 45 minutes with invited questions to follow.

Limited spaces, please acknowledge your interest to reserve a seat.

Aborealists Gary Cook and Paul Newman in conversation
2025-03-28 14:30 - 15:30 (Europe/London)
‘The Woodlanders’ by Thomas Hardy
“I recently re-read Thomas Hardy’s The Woodlanders and was struck by the number of wonderfully lyrical but very casual references he made to the nature around him. Today, the encounters that he considered quite normal would be viewed as exciting, rare and exceptionally lucky sightings.

Hardy wrote The Woodlanders’ novel in 1887, during the course of the last 130 years, and more specifically the past 30, much of the wildlife that his generation considered commonplace in Dorset is now under threat or near to extinction. For example, he frequently mentions nightingales; their numbers have declined by 92% since 1970 so it is truly a privilege to hear their melodic song these days. A myriad of human factors lie behind the loss of this bird, which is so inspirational it has been a symbol of poets and creativity for centuries.”
Gary Cook
RI SGFA Arborealist

This classic novel inspired Gary to paint the incredible Dorset landscapes and the various species dependent on it, while incorporating Hardy’s incisive nature-notes into his work to serve as a clarion call for us all to protect the precious wildlife we have left.

In conversation with fellow Arborealist and Hardy enthusiast Paul Newman.
Paul is the creative director for Dorset Visual Arts and coordinates Art Weeks events as well as other project work as a curator, collaborator and writer.

“As a graphic fine artist my work comes from places I’ve explored and returned to repeatedly, with an ingrained personal significance, it’s a response to being affected by memories or experience over time. Exploring the links between the places I find and the stories that have fashioned them, I’m influenced by maps and writers, geologists and legends, songs and poems. Drawings and photographs taken in the field are then worked up into finished pieces in the studio”.
Paul Newman (a self confessed ‘Hardy’ nut!)

All welcome. Please register interest as spaces are limited.

Chatting time approximately 45 minutes.

The Arborealists: 40 Works
2025-03-22 10:00 - 2025-04-19 17:00 (Europe/London)
Untitled by Arborealist Alan Rankle

This group show runs from March 22nd to April 19th.

The Arborealists group founded in 2013 comprises 50 professional artists, who celebrate trees with their 40th exhibition and the first time the group’s work can be viewed in Dorset.

The Arborealists’ inaugural exhibition in 2014 at the Royal West of England Academy, Bristol attracted national media attention, with The Telegraph describing it as “spellbinding.”

This new show of 40 selected works has been curated by the group’s founder, artist and curator Tim Craven, and returning artist Paul Newman, Creative Director of Dorset Visual Arts based at Sherborne House.

The Arborealists span a wide geographic range, with members from across the UK and beyond. Despite their diverse practices, the group is united by a shared fascination with trees, which is reflected in their dramatic, contemplative, expressive, abstracted, hyperreal, and surreal artworks.

Collaborations with environmental organizations, including national park authorities, the National Trust, National Landscapes and the Woodland Trust, have produced nine publications with further site-specific projects on the horizon.

The seed for this collaboration was sown during our parkwide 2023 Arbor exhibition, and as we move from the winter months it heralds the arrival and colour of spring, demonstrating the enduring relevance of trees in contemporary art and their power to captivate and inspire.

Spring Equinox Retreat
2025-03-20 19:00 - 21:30 (Europe/London)
The Spring Equinox marks the time of year when the day and night are of equal length, and the balance between light and darkness is restored. As we move from the dark half of the year into the light, is a time of renewal, rebirth, and new beginnings, when the energy of the earth begins to awaken and come back to life.

The Spring Equinox is a time of transition and change that has been celebrated by cultures all over the world for thousands of years. It is a time to honour the return of the sun, the emergence of new growth, and the renewal of life.

It invites us to reflect on the past and consider what we want to create in the future. It is a time to plant seeds, both literally and figuratively, and to set intentions for the year ahead.

To celebrate the Spring Equinox Simon Gudgeon is offering an evening retreat which will include a Cacao Ceremony, Drum Circle and Sound Bath.

Cacao Ceremony
We will gather around a fire (weather permitting) for a Cacao Ceremony and Drum Circle. (Drums will be provided or you can bring your own)
The benefits of participating in a cacao ceremony are manifold. Here are just a few of the transformative effects that this sacred ritual can bring:
1. Heart-opening and emotional healing: Cacao’s unique properties can help individuals release emotional blockages, heal past traumas, and cultivate self-love, forgiveness, and empathy.
2. Enhanced creativity and intuition: By quieting the mind and stimulating the brain, cacao ceremonies encourage individuals to tap into their innate creativity, intuition, and higher consciousness.
3. Connection and community: The shared experience of a cacao ceremony fosters a profound sense of unity and connection among participants, promoting a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of all life.
4. Stress reduction and relaxation: The calming effects of cacao, combined with the soothing elements of the ceremony, can alleviate stress and anxiety, allowing participants to sink into a state of deep relaxation.

Drum Circle
A drum circle is a communal gathering where we play shamanic drums and percussion instruments in a rhythmic, often improvised flow. Rooted in ancient traditions across many cultures, drum circles are used for celebration, healing, and community bonding. They can be facilitated by a leader or entirely spontaneous, creating a shared, meditative musical experience.
One of the primary benefits of a drum circle is stress relief and emotional expression. The repetitive, rhythmic drumming helps induce a meditative state, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. The physical act of drumming also allows participants to release built-up emotions, fostering a sense of emotional freedom.
Drumming has been shown to support physical health by improving coordination, boosting the immune system, and even reducing blood pressure. The rhythmic vibrations stimulate the brain, enhancing focus, concentration, and cognitive function.
On a deeper level, drum circles encourage social connection and unity. Drumming together synchronises heartbeats and breathing patterns, fostering a sense of belonging and shared energy. It breaks down social barriers, creating an inclusive space for self-expression.
Spiritually, drum circles can be grounding and empowering, helping individuals feel more connected to themselves, others, and the present moment. Whether for healing, creativity, or joy, drum circles offer a powerful and transformative experience.

Sound Bath
We will then move into the Retreat to immerse yourself in the soothing vibrations of a healing sound bath, where the therapeutic tones of singing bowls, gongs, and other sacred instruments will wash over you. This enchanting auditory experience will ease physical tension, calm your mind, and leave you feeling balanced and harmonized on every level.
Our evening retreat offers a truly transformative journey of self-discovery and renewal, integrating ancient wisdom with modern practices to provide a comprehensive experience like no other. Reserve your spot today and prepare to embrace a new level of personal growth, well-being, and inner harmony.

Reserve your place here:

Science Day
2025-03-12 10:30 - 12:30 (Europe/London)
Building on the success of our Wild Wednesdays biodiversity monitoring program, Sculpture by the Lakes is thrilled to kick off this year’s series with a special Science Day event during the Dorchester Science Festival. Our Wild Wednesdays have provided a platform for visitors to engage in hands-on learning experiences, and this Science Day aims to expand on that by offering a comprehensive exploration of the natural world.

The Science Day serves as an exciting and enriching extension of our Wild Wednesdays, inviting participants to delve into various aspects of our local ecosystem.

This event will cover a range of activities, including:

Discovering the benefits of biochar and no-dig methods in sustainable gardening, as we delve into the importance of nurturing our environment for future generations.

Learning about the fascinating world of moths and their crucial role in our ecosystem.

Experiencing the excitement of pond dipping, uncovering the diverse aquatic life that thrives beneath the water’s surface.

Embarking on a journey into the intriguing realms of fungi and lichens, and developing an appreciation for the critical roles they play in our ecosystem.

Expanding your knowledge of medicinal plants and their healing properties, as we explore the importance of natural remedies in promoting wellness.

Join us for this special edition of Wild Wednesdays as we celebrate the launch of this year’s series with an unforgettable Science Day experience at Sculpture by the Lakes. Immerse yourself in the wonders of the natural world and contribute to the ongoing conservation efforts that help protect it.

Tickets for our science day are £10 which includes entry to the Sculpture Park for the entire day.

There are 2 sessions 10.30am – 12.30pm or 2.30pm – 4.30pm. Reserve your place here:

Dusk Photography by the Lakes
2025-03-08 14:30 - 18:30 (Europe/London)
Sunset across the Lakes – Sunset Photography with Sculptural Elements
8th March 2025 – 14:30 – 18:30

It is with great excitement the owners Simon & Monique, have given special access around the lakes to run a Dusk photography workshop. This will allow photographers an exclusive one-off opportunity, to capture a glorious sunset amongst the incredible artistic sculptures within this beautiful landscape.

This workshop has been designed for beginners to intermediate level, with a maximum of five participants. The only requirement is for the attendee on the course to provide their own Bridge, DSLR, or Mirrorless camera and tripod.

Perfect for photographers seeking to capture a sunset across the lakes at the beautiful setting of Sculpture by the Lakes. This workshop also focuses on capturing sculptures around the lakes in the magnificent golden hours at dusk.

During this workshop, I will demonstrate and teach the elements of:
Camera technique, Geometry of composition, Balance, Modes, Controlling exposure, Working with light, Focusing and Depth of field.

This workshop is run by Scott Macintyre. Winner of the Historic England category for Historical Photographer of the year 2023 and most recently the Winner of the International Garden Photographer of the Year in the Wild Flower category. See Scott’s winning entry here.

Scott loves to immerse himself into woodlands, landscapes, coastal regions, and amongst wildlife. Capturing authentic beautiful atmospheric images, which remain natural and true to the subject.

To find out more about Scott and his work visit his website: https://www.scottmacintyrephotography.co.uk/

Reserve your place here:

Rose Pruning Workshop With John Cunningham
2025-02-22 10:00 - 16:00 UTC | Sculpture by the Lakes, Pallington Lakes, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8QU, United Kingdom
In the world of roses there are many different types and varieties, all of which require different pruning techniques. In this one-day workshop, John Cunningham will describe each of the different types and how to tell them apart, what tools to use and how to care for them, as well as caring for your plants!

Trained at The Royal Botanical Gardens, Edinburgh, and a qualified designer, John specialises in pruning and garden development for private clients. He has planted over 60 Royal Horticultural Society and International Show gardens over the past 30 years and has judged for the RHS since 2013. He shares his knowledge with humour and passion and he loves his job.

You can bring your own secateurs if you would like but please ensure they are sharp and are clean and disinfected before you arrive. You will need to bring your own lunch, or you can book a table with The Kitchen on kitchen@sculpturebythelakes.co.uk Arrival is from 10am and the course starts at 10.30am. We break for lunch at 12.00 and resume at 1.00 finishing at 4pm.

Reserve your place here:

Valentines Day Retreat Sessions
2025-02-14 14:00 - 21:00 (Europe/London)
Commit to your personal happiness and wellbeing through self-compassion, acceptance, and kindness this Valentine’s Day.​
Loving others is often easier than loving yourself. We tend to be our own worst critics, not treating ourselves with the same love and respect we show to our loved ones.​

When you show self-love, it impacts how you engage with the world around you.​

This Valentine’s Day we encourage you to put yourself first and join us for an afternoon or evening of self-care and cleansing energy, held by Simon Gudgeon.

Sessions:

❤ Nurture Your Soul. Evening Session from 7pm – 9pm (£40 per person)​

Cacao Ceremony
The Cacao Ceremony provides a space for us to come together, share our experiences, and connect with each other.
Cacao is a perfect plant for anxiety, as it brings natural stress relief. By directly connecting to our nervous system, it triggers dopamine and the endorphin, ‘Anandamide’, two essential neurotransmitters that make us feel blissed out and loved up.

Sound Bath
A sound bath is typically a way of managing anxiety, soothing the nervous system, and blocking all the ideas and thoughts out of your consciousness as you connect with your body. Sound enters the healing equation from several directions: It may alter cellular functions through energetic effects; it may entrain biological systems to function more homeostatically; it may be calm the mind and therefore the body; or it may have emotional effects, which influence neurotransmitters and neuropeptides, which in turn help to regulate the immune system—the healer within.

Truly treat your soul and join us for one or both special events.​ Reserve your place here:
