Described as one of the most beautiful and unique sculpture parks in the UK, Sculpture by the Lakes will open as usual on Saturday 19 March – but every penny from every entry ticket sold that day will be donated to the British Red Cross DEC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal; as well as 20% being donated from any piece of art sold in the Gallery on the same day.

It is hoped that the day will raise thousands of pounds to support the emergency appeal. 

Simon Gudgeon, globally renowned sculptor, and the founder of Sculpture by the Lakes, said: “We have been watching with horror the unfolding situation in Ukraine, and the terrible toll being paid by civilians following the invasion by Russian forces. This is our small way of showing our solidarity with the people of Ukraine and with help from our visitors, we hope to raise a substantial sum to ease the suffering of those under attack and those fleeing from the Russian bombardment.”

The multi-award-winning sculpture park, garden and wildlife haven is set across 26 acres at Pallington Lakes near Dorchester, alongside Dorset’s SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) River Frome, with three large lakes, several small ponds, and spring-fed streams, meandering woodland paths as well as more formal gardens and a quarter acre kitchen garden.

Dotted throughout the woodland trails and garden walks are more than 30 sculptures by Simon Gudgeon, which are currently joined by many additions by fellow contemporary sculptors, installed ahead of the major sculpture exhibition FORM 2022, which will see 200 works on show from 30 March to 29 May.

“Saturday is by far our busiest day here,” said Simon, ‘and we are busier than usual at the moment with visitors coming to enjoy the additional sculptures ahead of FORM 2022, so we aim to raise at least £4,000. We hope anyone thinking about paying us a visit soon will choose to come along on Saturday 19th and help us to raise as much as possible. Thank you in advance to all that do.”

Tickets must be booked in advance, visit www.sculpturebythelakes.co.uk and follow the link ‘Book Entrance Tickets Here’ select Saturday 19 March, when the park is open from 10am to 5pm. Entry is £12.50 per person, no children under 14 years old (including pushchairs) and no dogs of any age admitted.

The full ticket amount (including VAT) will be donated to the British Red Cross DEC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal.