A day of educating, socialising and some exciting buying from attendees, the event took place in the estate’s highly acclaimed Sculpture Garden, which, set against the stunning Cheshire countryside backdrop, is a leading destination for creative art, beautiful design, and seasonal sculptures. Throughout the day, which consisted of both morning and afternoon slots, guests were given a private walk and tour by BBC’s Antiques Roadshow Specialist Grant Ford, who both curates and represents the exhibitions with a pure passion and knowledge for both the artists on show, and their work.
Throughout the event, there was a poignant focus on the spiritual yet clever work of Halima Cassell, with the artist there in person, presenting two 15-minute talks about the story behind her work and further career. In her work, Cassell’s work celebrates life and community, emphasising their similarities rather than their differences. Through the power of pattern and suggestive quality, she attempts to transport people to different places and cultures, by bonding them through memories and anchoring them in shared consciousness. The texture and surface of Cassell’s work is as important as the structure itself, with the beautiful, smooth carving inviting touch.
During the event, the estate offered its first ever one-off sale to attendees, so while free to attend, there were incredible reductions available. As it stands, there were a number of sales made on the day, with numerous conversations and negotiations continuing to take place in the background. When they weren’t outside weaving their way through sculptures and truly immersing themselves in the artistic experience, the estate’s Goldie’s Restaurant was open for festive nibbles and warming mulled wine, where lots of guests went to ponder before their purchase!
On the success of the event, Grant says: “To see our original vision for both the artists, the sculptures and the garden coming to fruition rally meant something to me, and the rest of the team. We have lots of exciting ideas planned for the future 12 months and I am sure they will be just as successful and sought after as this one!”
With every event held at the Sculpture Garden so far seeing such success, the estate has announced plans for 2023 with similar, regular walk and talks taking place, with a spotlight on different artists each time. In addition to Halima Cassell, some of the other artists on display include Pat Bull, Ian Marlow, Masoud Akhavanjam, Stephanie Cushing and Matt Duke.
