Botanical Gardens set to be awash with creativity at Art in the Gardens 2023

Visitors enjoying the different artwork displayed at Art in the Gardens, among a scenic background of trees. Photo: Ian Spooner

Art in the Gardens, one of the largest outdoor art markets in the north of England, returns on 2-3 September at Sheffield’s beautiful Botanical Gardens. 

Visitors will be able to experience collections of work from artists and craft makers from Sheffield and across the UK, all in the idyllic surroundings of the gardens. 

Artist Wendy Carlton has exhibited her work at Art in the Gardens every year since the event started in 2004 and will be showcasing her work at the Central Dome Pavilion. Wendy said: 

"The first Art in the Gardens went ahead in 2004 and has catered for both professional and amateur artists throughout its history, with the Open Art Exhibition and Celebrity Portrait competition."

Exhibits and stalls will include fine art and crafts, ceramics, jewellery, sculpture, paintings, portraiture, glass art, wire art, papercut art, original print works, plus the annual Open Art Competition, a Home and Gardens showcase, Sheffield Young Artists display, and a fantastic selection of food and refreshment stalls. 

Wendy continued: “The flourishing and popular event means such a lot to many local and national artists who return year upon year.  

“Sheffield Botanical Gardens is a fantastic location, and the pavilion is the perfect setting for my paintings. The vast walls, tropical plants and stunning Victorian glazed roof provide the perfect backdrop for my large, colourful paintings which nestle among the greenery. 

“I am proud that my customers have seen my work develop from the stylised large flower heads of the original logo to my current ranges of meadowlands, abstracts, landscapes, and an array of custom-made homeware products printed from my art. Art in the Gardens is a fabulous event, my favourite to take part in. I see it as my ‘Happy Place’ and long may it continue!” 

Councillor Martin Smith, chair of the Economic Development and Skills Policy Committee, said: 

“Since 2004, Art in the Gardens has been a highlight of Sheffield’s cultural calendar, bringing artists and makers from across the UK to one of our most beautiful green spaces. 

“The event is a fantastic opportunity for visitors to discover work from well-established and up and coming artists, as well as pick up original pieces of art, prints and crafts. 

“Sheffield truly is a creative and innovative city at its heart, and I hope that we’ll see lots of people come to celebrate art and creativity in all its forms over the weekend.” 

The premier sponsor for Art in the Gardens 2023 is Graysons Solicitors. The event is also sponsored by Volta Creative, and the featured charity is Roundabout. 

Ticket information: 

Location: Sheffield Botanical Gardens, Clarkhouse Road, S10 2LN 

Times: 10.30am-5.30pm Saturday and Sunday. 

General admission tickets for over 16 years cost £6.00 plus fees and under 16 years tickets are free. 

Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. 

Tickets must be bought in advance via Eventbrite, there will be no ticket sales on the gate.