Destination's Journey

Category: Art

  • Upper Hunter Valley Sculpture Trail

    Upper Hunter Valley Sculpture Trail

    Upper Hunter Valley Sculpture Trail

    The Upper Hunter Valley Sculpture Trail runs from Muswellbrook to Denman and onto Sandy Hollow.

    In Muswellbrook, it starts outside of the Regional Arts Centre, where you will find a map of the trail and the first sculpture, the ANZAC Centenary Stone. From here you drive to Two Rivers Wines outside of Denman, before heading to David Mahoney’s Art Gallery and Sculpture Park at Sandy Hollow

    • Upper Hunter Valley Sculpture Trail Map
      Upper Hunter Valley Sculpture Trail Map

    Muswellbrook

    Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre

    • ANZAC Centenary Stone Outside the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre
      ANZAC Centenary Stone Outside the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre

    Two Rivers Wines

    Situated just outside Denman, Two Rivers Wines contains a great selection of sculptures.

    The ‘Custodians of the Landscape’ sandstone sculptures were carved onsite at Two Rivers in the winter of 2015 by international artist Ben Dearnley. More than 20 tonnes of stone sourced from the vineyard were used to create this unique and compelling project by Ben. His work directly references the ancient art form of stone masonry whilst reflecting our own landscape here at Two Rivers.  Ben says that the flowing and dynamic nature of the sculptures reflects the ever changing moods and seasons of the vineyard where growing the vines is a labour of love in tune with nature itself.

    There are 8 pieces of Ben’s work situated around the Cellar Door and entry to the vineyard. These pieces whilst all individual have been designed by Ben to collectively reflect the importance he saw that Two Rivers placed on our unique landscape.

    https://www.tworivers.com.au/sculptures

    While at Two Rivers, don’t forget to sample some of their excellent wines, or have a meal at the restaurant.

    • Entrance to Two Rivers Wines
      Entrance to Two Rivers Wines
    • Sculpture at Two Rivers Wines
      Sculpture at Two Rivers Wines
    • Grape Vine Sculpture at Two Rivers Wines
      Grape Vine Sculpture at Two Rivers Wines
    • Face Sculpture at Two Rivers Wines
      Face Sculpture at Two Rivers Wines
    • Face Sculpture at Two Rivers Wines
      Face Sculpture at Two Rivers Wines
    • Sculpture at Two Rivers Wines
      Sculpture at Two Rivers Wines
    • Scenery at Two Rivers Wines
      Scenery at Two Rivers Wines
    • Two Rivers Wines Vineyards
      Two Rivers Wines Vineyards
    • Scenery at Two Rivers Wines
      Scenery at Two Rivers Wines

    Denman

    While passing through Denman to Visit the sculptures at Two River Wines, don’t forget to stop in town and explore what is available. Whilst there we visited the main shopping street, Ogilvie Street and a number of cafe’s that served great meals and drinks, we did not get a chance to do the hotels nearby. Ogilvie Street also contains several interesting old buildings, such as the Memorial Hall.

    On your way out of town towards Sandy Hollow and the last stop on the Sculpture Trail, keep and eye out for the two old tractors on poles at the entrance to a farm.

    • Royal Hotel Denman
      Royal Hotel Denman
    • Ogilvie St, Denman
      Ogilvie St, Denman
    • Denman Memorial Hall Ogilvie St, Denman
      Denman Memorial Hall Ogilvie St, Denman
    • Farm Entrance With Tractors
      Farm Entrance With Tractors

    St Matthias Denman Anglican Church

    Located at 35 Palace St, Denman NSW, this beautiful old church is not far from the town centre and worth the short walk to drive to visit. Designed by John Horbury Hunt and consecrated in 1875 by Bishop Tyrrell, St Matthias has been operating for over 130 years .

    • St Matthias Denman Anglican church
      St Matthias Denman Anglican church
    • St Matthias Denman Anglican church
      St Matthias Denman Anglican church

    Sandy Hollow

    David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park

    Located on the Golden Highway at the intersection with Honey Lane, David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park is a wonderful place to wander through and explore. The magical sculptures and mosaics allow you to relax while you have a break from driving. We loved looking around because of the unique artworks on display.

    The setting is also magnificent, giving great views over the surrounding farmland.

    This is the last stop on the Upper Hunter Valley Sculpture Trail and contains the largest number of displays. Parking is easy, as the Park fronts onto the highway, with plenty of spaces outside.

    There is also an art gallery and cafe on site, but these were closed during our visit.

    • David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
      David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
    • Giant Violin at David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
      Giant Violin at David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
    • Mozaic Display at David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
      Mozaic Display at David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
    • Lizard Mozaic at David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
      Lizard Mozaic at David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
    • Eagle Sculpture at David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
      Eagle Sculpture at David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
    • Owl Painting David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
      Owl Painting David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
    • David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
      Eagle Sculpture at David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
    • David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
      David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow

    What Did We Think?

    We had a great time following the Sculpture Trail, and enjoyed all three stops. We also liked Denman where we had a coffee and morning tea before heading on to Sandy Hollow.

    To see what else there is to do in New South Wales, please see some of our other stories.

    Our photos are available for purchase on

  • Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Australia

    Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Australia

    Royal Botanic Garden

    Established in 1816, the Royal Botanic Garden covers 30 hectares and has over 27,000 plants, right in the middle of Sydney’s CBD. With landmarks like Sydney Harbor and the Opera House as its neighbours, it is in the perfect setting.

    Getting there is easy, with Circular Quay only a five-minute walk away with its buses, ferries and trains, making the Gardens are very accessible.

    Walking through the gardens, you come across numerous plants and trees, all labelled with their names. Changed seasonally, the gardens are a constantly renewing landscape.

    Scattered throughout, are statues and sculptures, all of which add to the fun of the walk. One of the highlights, is the koala sculptures, complete with glasses.

    • Giant Floral Koala
      Giant Floral Koala
    • Giant Floral Bee
      Giant Floral Bee
    • The Satyr
      The Satyr
    • Lewis Wolfe Levy Fountain
      Lewis Wolfe Levy Fountain

    Don’t miss a visit to the Calyx, as its current display of carnivorous plants is amazing. We spent a long time looking around at all the different species on display. Take a look at their website for opening-times and what the current display is.

    • The Calyx
      The Calyx
    • Pitcher Plants The Calyx
      Pitcher Plants The Calyx
    • Pitcher Plants The Calyx
      Pitcher Plants The Calyx

    The Royal Botanic Gardens are surrounded by 34 hectares of manicured gardens in the Domain. This encompasses Mrs Macquarie’s Chair with magnificent views over Sydney Harbour.

    Mrs Macquarie's Chair
    Mrs Macquarie’s Chair

    What Did We Think?

    The Royal Botanic Garden in Sydney is a great place to visit and wander through, as its ever changing landscape always has something new to offer. Its amazing location on Sydney Harbour with the Opera House and Bridge nearby, give is a great backdrop. The Garden is worth visiting, for a relaxing walk in the centre of Sydney.

  • Art Gallery of New South Wales

    Art Gallery of New South Wales

    Art Gallery of New South Wales

    Located in the Domain, the Art Gallery of New South Wales opened in 1885 with two picture galleries. Over time additional wings and a foyer expanded the building to its current size.

    Entry is free to the general collection, although entry to any special events or exhibitions is not.

    How to Get to The Art Gallery of New South Wales

    If driving, the Domain car park is within easy walking distance and is secure and undercover. The closest train station is Martin Place, only a ten-minute walk from the Gallery. The closest bus stop is Sheraton on the Park, Elizabeth St, followed by a 15 minute walk. Both walks go through the Domain parkland which has landscaped gardens, with shady trees and seats to relax on.

    Art Gallery of New South Wales
    Art Gallery of New South Wales
    Entrance Foyer of the Art Gallery of NSW
    Entrance Foyer of the Art Gallery of NSW

    The Art Gallery of New South Wales Collection

    15th to 19th Century European Gallery

    Filled with classical European paintings and sculptures, this gallery contains beautiful artworks from the 15th to 19th centuries. There is a large silver sculpture (The English Channel by Michael Parekowhai 2015), from the 21st century that clashes with the other works, because of its chrome finish.

    The English Channel by Michael Parekowhai 2015
    The English Channel by Michael Parekowhai 2015
    Bronze Sculpture Art Gallery of New South Wales
    Bronze Sculpture
    Bronze Sculptures Art Gallery of New South Wales
    Bronze Sculptures
    The visit of the Queen of Sheba to King Solomon by Sir Edward John Poynter 1890
    The visit of the Queen of Sheba to King Solomon by Sir Edward John Poynter 1890

    Australian Gallery

    One of the reasons for the Galley’s foundation, was to encourage interest in the arts in Australia. To this end it has expanded from simply showing European art, to exhibiting Australian artists.

    Represented here are famous Australian artists, such as Sidney Nolan and Russell Drysdale in addition to many others.

    First-class Marksman by Sidney Nolan 1946 Art Gallery of New South Wales
    First-class Marksman by Sidney Nolan 1946
    The Camp by Sidney Nolan 1946
    The Camp by Sidney Nolan 1946
    Five in a Row by Richard Larter 1961
    Five in a Row by Richard Larter 1961
    Crucifixion by Russell Drysdale 1946 Art Gallery of New South Wales
    Crucifixion by Russell Drysdale 1946
    Nocturne No. 3 Commonwealth Lane by Danila Vassilieff 1958 Art Gallery of New South Wales
    Nocturne No. 3 Commonwealth Lane by Danila Vassilieff 1958
    Atlas by Colin Lanceley 1965
    Atlas by Colin Lanceley 1965

    Lowy, Gonski Gallery

    Busts in the Classical Gallery
    Busts in the Lowy, Gonski Gallery

    Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Gallery

    Showcased in its own gallery, the unique style of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders is a great contrast to classical art in the other galleries. Often colourful and always reflecting the artists culture, this was a great gallery to wander around.

    Contemporary Aboriginal Art Work
    Contemporary Aboriginal Art Work
    Aboriginal Art Work
    Aboriginal Art Work
    Aboriginal Message Sticks
    Aboriginal Message Sticks

    Contemporary Galleries

    The contemporary galleries display art that reflects current culture, covering the 1960s to present in all media types.

    Clockwork for Oracles by Ugo Rondinone 2010
    Clockwork for Oracles by Ugo Rondinone 2010

    Asian Gallery

    Following the Sydney International Exhibition in 1879, the Government of Japan gifted a large group of ceramics and bronzes to the Gallery. This initial collection has now expanded to cover two floors, making the gallery a leading centre for Asian art. Today, the wide-ranging Asian collection embraces many countries and cultures of Asia.

    Asian Exhibition
    Asian Exhibition

    Entrance Court and Special Exhibits

    Often displaying large murals that reflect the current special exhibits, the Entrance Court is large, bright and open. It leads to most of the other galleries. Pick up a map at the reception desk, to ensure you can find your way around. The internal floor plan of the gallery is complex and it’s easy to miss exhibits.

    The Gallery Shop contains an extensive array of books and gifts relating to the gallery. If you need a reference book, or want to learn more about an artist, this could be the pace to find it.

    Japanese Supernatural Exhibition
    Japanese Supernatural Exhibition
    Japanese Supernatural
    Japanese Supernatural

    Art Outside the Gallery

    Adorning the walls of the Gallery’s entrance a series of bronze sculptures, representing classical European art. Throughout the Domain, sculptures of Burns, Robertson (a politician) and contemporary themes add to the fun of walking around.

    • Sir John Robertson Statue
      Sir John Robertson Statue
    • Opposite the Art Gallery
      Opposite the Art Gallery
    • Front of the Art Gallery
      Front of the Art Gallery
    • The Matchsticks
      The Matchsticks
    • Burns Statue
      Burns Statue

    Where to Eat

    If you get hungry before, during or after you visit, the gallery has a cafe where you can refuel before admiring the art works on display.

    If you would rather eat outside, a restaurant and associated bar across the road offer meals snacks and drinks.

    To see what else there is to do in New South Wales, please see some of our other stories.

    Our photos are available for purchase on