ABOUT THE GARDEN
Leicester University’s Botanic Garden is a fascinating resource for artists.
In the early 20th century, wealthy industrialists built four grand houses with expansive gardens. Later, in 1947, the University obtained this land covering sixteen acres. The four once-separate gardens were merged and have been instrumental in conserving various plant species and global biodiversity.
Today the Botanic Garden is a living museum, a green laboratory, with a wealth of botanical treasures. It offers visitors a green oasis of calm amongst a mosaic of habitats with ancient woodland, water features, glass houses, and a backdrop of heritage architecture.
A unique environment for artists to work within and engage with visitors and the public.
There’s lots more to read on the University of Leicester's dedicated web pages.
ART IN THE GARDEN
Art in the Garden is an exciting project associated with the University of Leicester and the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust (UHLT). LSA Activity Days at the University's Botanic Garden will offer a stimulating opportunity for LSA members to use the gardens as inspiration for producing new works. It will also provide an opportunity for visitors to meet and engage with LSA members who will be painting and drawing on the days, making it an enjoyable experience for all.
Following the success of 2024, LSA artists are invited to join colleagues in creating art. The ‘plein air’ days will showcase our considerable skills as a society and provide members an excellent opportunity to meet up, socialise, and share experiences and ideas on best practices.
Beyond the ‘plein air’ days, the work produced it is hoped will provide a springboard for further exhibiting and residency opportunities currently under discussion.
ACTIVITY DAYS
The 3 LSA members’ Open Days with a public invitation for visitors are as follows:
SUNDAY JUNE 1st ‘Plein air gathering’ 11- 4 pm
SUNDAY JUNE 22nd ‘Plein air gathering’ 11- 4 pm
SATURDAY JULY 26th ‘Plein air gathering’ 11- 4 pm
On each of the days, LSA members are invited to join in fine art ‘plein air’ art sessions in locations around the Garden, using the wide range of themes and sources of inspiration. These could include anything from small organic details to broader landscapes, architecture, wildlife, visitors, and fellow artists. Work can be representational or abstract. Large or small. Artists can work in any medium.
This will be a unique opportunity for Botanic Garden friends, visitors, and members of the public to see art produced by LSA artists across various themes and mediums.
Each event will be promoted and publicised to raise awareness and interest and maximise visitor attendance.
The public will be invited to watch artwork evolve, meet the artists, and bring materials to participate in the day. Upon entry Children visiting the gardens will be gifted sketchbooks and pencils . LSA has also published a botanical-themed colouring book with linear botanical illustrations and activity sheets, all designed by Chloe Jean Brown, which will be included in the kits.
Venue Details
Leicester University Botanic Garden is situated off the A6 London Road at the junction of the A563 Palmerston Way (Ring Road). The entrance is located on Glebe Road, and there is plentiful on-street parking.
Address
Glebe Road, Leicester
LE2 2LD. England
Opening Hours
10am-5pm, every day
https://le.ac.uk/botanic-garden
LSA Artist Mandeep Dhadialla - Tulip Daze (Lino Cut)