A sculpture garden is an outdoor space dedicated to the display of large pieces of artwork. While stone sculptures represent the most common form of art found in these spaces, other types of media may also be present. The concept of a sculpture garden dates back to ancient Greek and Roman societies, which used these gardens as both public art display and public recreation or leisure space. Today, sculpture gardens may take the form of enclosed gardens, parks or even trails that allow visitors to enjoy art in a natural outdoor setting.
Many sculpture gardens are based around a large green space, though some may include hardscapes and paved areas. The garden often includes a variety of plant species, including trees, bushes, and flowing plants. It's important to understand that not all sculpture gardens necessarily include traditional plants or green space however. Some may simply sit in urban areas or paved sections with little to no plant life. Others may include specialty features like cafes, fountains, and water features.
A sculpture garden may be open to the public or privately owned. Some may be attached to private residences, while others are located in commercial areas. A large number of sculpture gardens are located adjacent to museums, and are used to house large sculptures that belong to the museum's collection. Each sculpture garden may be free to enter or require a fee, depending on the owner's requirements.
These gardens often house a permanent collection of works, though some may change by year or season. Others feature special exhibits that travel from different areas or locations. The artwork in a sculpture garden may even include temporary works or art by local students or residents. These gardens not only allow the public to enjoy works of art, but also to enjoy outdoor public space. Some encourage visitors to linger by offering cafes or interactive displays.
While many popular sculpture gardens exist throughout the world. some of the best known are associated with major museums. For example, the National Gallery of Art in Washington DC is home to a popular sculpture garden, which sits just outside the walls of the gallery. This sculpture garden features a variety of permanent and temporary sculptures along with immaculate landscaping and plant life. A popular cafe sits in the garden, and allows visitors to enjoy a meal while gazing at works of art. In the summer, guests can enjoy a large fountain in the center of the garden, which transforms into an ice skating rink during the winter months.