Smooth operator – Henry Moore’s Monumental Nature
9 May-27 Sept
From early May, Kew Gardens will be transformed as Henry Moore’s monumental sculptures add to the lush landscape, inviting visitors into a striking dialogue between art, nature and scale
An extraordinary exhibition, celebrating one of Britain’s most influential sculptors, Henry Moore, comes to Kew Gardens. Moore was renowned for his large-scale bronze and stone forms, often inspired by the human body and natural shapes such as bones, rocks and landscapes. Born in 1898 and active throughout the 20th century, Moore became a leading figure in modern sculpture before his death in 1986.
This landmark exhibition is the largest outdoor presentation of his work ever staged, bringing together more than 100 pieces. Around 30 monumental sculptures are placed across Kew’s sweeping landscapes, where their organic forms echo the surrounding trees, lawns and vistas. Inside the Shirley Sherwood Gallery of Botanical Art, over 70 additional works – including drawings, maquettes, and smaller sculptures – offer insight into Moore’s creative process and artistic development.
The exhibition reveals how deeply nature influenced Moore’s imagination, from subtle curves to powerful abstract forms. The placement of each sculpture encourages visitors to see both the artworks and the gardens in a new light.
This is one half of a dual-site celebration across the Royal Botanic Gardens. A complementary exhibition at Wakehurst presents a more intimate experience, alongside contemporary works co-curated with the Henry Moore Institute. Organised with the Henry Moore Foundation, it forms a unique tribute to Moore’s enduring legacy.
kew.org
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Image courtesy of KBG: (c) Jonty Wilde