Sculpturefest, a private Vermont property that has been transformed into a free outdoor gallery where art and nature intertwine, opens for the season this Sunday. The opening reception at 509 Prosper Road begins at 2 p.m., with artist meet-and-greets, as well as live music by Rose Hip Jam Band featuring Kerry Rosenthal and trio beginning around 3 p.m.
What began with five artists and a dinner party has become one of Vermont’s most enduring cultural traditions.
Charlet Davenport, who founded Sculpturefest in the early 1990s while serving on the Vermont Council of the Arts, transformed her family’s property into an outdoor gallery with some delightfully practical rules. All works must be “horse friendly” and “winter worthy,” as pieces remain on display year-round. Most importantly, everything must be safe for the school children who visit throughout the year as part of environmental education programs.
“We believe the land belongs to everybody,” Davenport explained, reflecting a philosophy that has made Sculpturefest free to attend while creating a space where art and nature coexist.
Rick Russell Photos
"Emergence" by Nira Granott Fox is a flowing metal sculpture that was created during the COVID pandemic, symbolizing hope and renewal as the world emerged from isolation into connection once again.
Beyond the individual works, Sculpturefest represents something deeper than an art exhibition. The property includes a memorial willow maze with eight chambers, created 15 years ago to honor a deceased family member. Visitors can walk through the center path with four chambers on either side, adding a contemplative element to the artistic experience.
The atmosphere that has sustained Sculpturefest for over three decades goes beyond the sculptures themselves. Visitors are encouraged to settle in for conversations with artists, music, and the simple pleasure of art in nature. They should come prepared for walking on natural terrain and are encouraged to bring picnics to fully enjoy the pastoral setting.
The property includes a small playground for children, and the entire experience is designed to be accessible for families. Some sculptures are located on the adjacent King Farm property, offering adventurous visitors additional works to discover.
For more on this, please see our July 3 edition of the Vermont Standard.
