'In Bud and Bloom' Art exhibition

"Few spaces have ignited the artistic imagination quite like gardens and here in Cumbria, we have a national reputation for our Gardens, from the grand and historic to the intimate and natural. In our Summer Exhibition, we look at flowers as an inspirational and thought provoking artform, through the contemporary artwork of 43 invited UK artists, 13 of whom are living and working in Cumbria.

Through stunning photography, film, and artwork both historic and contemporary, the In Bud & Bloom exhibition opens with a look at the vibrant world of Cumbrian gardens, many with national collections of Flowers.

From here you will uncover the roots of botanical illustration going back to Victorian scientific drawings. Discover the floral influences of the Arts and Crafts movement in Cumbria, seen in interiors and garden design by artists like Morris & Co. and Baillie Scott.

The majority of the Gallery will be filled with a wonderful range of contemporary artwork by established and emerging UK artists fascinated and inspired by flowers and gardens, all available to buy. From paintings, paper art, ceramics, textiles, mixed media, sculpture and installations. All the artwork has been carefully selected for their qualities of innovation, engagement and joy. Go behind the scenes with artist sketchbooks and studio footage, and dive into the rich language of flowers—floriography, folklore, symbolism, and their healing and harmful powers.

End your journey in our immersive soundscape room—pause, reflect, and lose yourself in the peaceful sounds of the garden.

Plus enjoy a fun paper flower making activity for children. 

Open Daily Friday 18 July to Sunday 5 October | Entry available any time from 9:30am onwards | Last Entry 4pm"

Tickets are priced £3 for adults and children under 12 can enter for free. To pre-book a ticket, follow this link: In Bud and Bloom - Rheged