We were extremely excited to learn of Tatton Park's Biennial 2008 - a new contemporary art event for the UK. To be launched during Cheshire’s Year of Gardens ‘08 and supported by various bodies, it will be staged from May to September 2008.A valued client of LDS Tourism Services, Tatton Park is an impressive historic estate which receives in the region of 750,000 visitors every year - all of whom come to enjoy its Georgian Mansion, Tudor Old Hall, award winning gardens and 1930s rare breeds farm. The 1,000 acre deer park is home to Red and Fallow deer and the estate also boasts speciality shops, adventure playground, restaurant and a year-round events programme.
The 2008 Biennial supports the work of emerging and mid-career artists through a commissioning process that reveals the history of the Park and is a launch pad for future events that will further understanding of exceptional artistic practice within the laboratory of this National Trust property.
With up to 6 semi-permanent works, 12 evolving commissions and a substantial programme of tours, performances and talks that lend further depth to the grounds, the Biennial will reflect the historical significance and contemporary relevance of Tatton Park. A specially curated film programme and an active Education and Access programme will extend to major cities, taking in a range of new visitors through specially devised and targeted schemes. A full-colour publication with commissioned essays, a novella by Giles Waterfield and an artist’s multiple will be produced for the opening.
The year long Cheshire Year of Gardens ‘08 has a crisp start at Chester Zoo’s Frost Fair in January 2008, unveiling the lavish flowers beds of Cheshire which will be making surprise appearances in Liverpool, at international gateways and at the RHS Flowers Shows.
The programme line up for the year is bubbling with a mixture of music, art, theatre, sport and food and drink events at major garden locations, including Lyme Park, Chester Zoological Garden, Arley Hall and Gardens, Jodrell Bank, Ness Gardens, Cholmondeley Castle Gardens, Capesthorne Hall, Gawsworth Hall and Norton Priory.
Cheshire can boast some of the finest gardens in the world, many of international importance; others are modest or even tiny expressions of someone’s urge to create a beautiful corner of the landscape. Whether part of an historic estate or simply colourful attractions in their own right, these stupendous bouquets are estimated to attract an additional 300,000 visits for the 08 celebrations.
