Tag: Sculpture Trail

  • 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

    Muswellbrook

    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.

    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.

    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 .

    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.

    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.

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