“Sculptures in a garden?” you ask. It sounds intriguing. Welcome to Yengo Sculpture Gardens. This garden combines natural beauty with artistic creations. It offers a unique experience here in Mount Wilson.
Yengo Sculpture Gardens has a rich history. Jesse Gregson first purchased Yengo in 1877. He sought help from Charles Moore. Moore was the Director of the Sydney Botanic Gardens. J.H. Maiden, the Government Botanist, also assisted.
The garden features sculptures by Judith Holmes Drewry and Lloyd le Blanc. Peter and Ann Pigott own and have restored the stone house and garden. The garden showcases 143-year-old trees. These trees include sequoia, cedar of Lebanon and Spanish cork trees. They were planted around 1880.
Judith Holmes Drewry was a leading portrait sculptor. She died in 2011. Her bronze works depict the female form. Lloyd Le Blanc is famous for his animal sculptures. His sculptures appear very realistic.
Peter Pigott says both sculptors are based in England. The sculptures are limited editions. Some may be available for sale.
Yengo Sculpture Gardens is also a sanctuary. It protects the rare Parma Wallabies. These native animals were reintroduced to Australia. Foxes and feral cats had wiped them out. Sir George Grey took them to an island off New Zealand. He was appointed Governor of New Zealand. Professor David Ride helped to rediscover them. He was thrilled they were coming back to Australia. The reserve is not open to the public.
The garden also features a variety of plants. You can find Clematis montana here. There is also a white wisteria with a wonderful scent. Another highlight is Wisteria floribunda ‘Macrobotrys.’ This Japanese form has been trained over a pergola.
Mount Wilson is known for its cool climate gardens. Spring and Autumn are the most popular seasons to visit. Many gardens open to the public. These gardens are often over 120 years old.
Yengo Sculpture Gardens supports Australia’s first endangered wildlife reserve. The entrance fee helps this cause. The reserve protects the Parma wallaby. It was thought to be extinct for over eighty years.
Yengo gardens are open by appointment only. If you wish to visit, you need to call 4756 2002.
Take a moment to appreciate this blend of art and nature. The sculptures add a unique dimension to the landscape. The old trees and rare plants create a serene atmosphere. Yengo Sculpture Gardens offers a peaceful escape. It also supports vital conservation efforts. It’s a place where art, history and nature come together.