Arts & Sculpture at Greys Court
- Time to read:
- 10 minutes
Inspired by Lady Brunner’s love of contemporary ceramics and sculpture, Greys Court has had long-term partnerships working with the annual Henley Art Trail and hosting the annual exhibition of the Oxford Sculptors Group.
Henley Arts Trail
Founded in 2006, The Henley Arts Trail was set up to showcase the amazing talent in the area. It has gone from strength to strength and now shows the work of over 200 creatives in 34 venues. It acts as an open studio and exhibition event showcasing an array of work by artists and makers at venues in and around Henley-on-Thames. Greys Court are proud to be one of the venue’s once again this year.
In 2026, the ancient Cromwellian room featured an extended exhibition of artists all inspired by the beautiful gardens of Greys Court. The botanical theme was captured in a range of media including ceramics, oils, watercolours and pastels.
The Darling Buds of May
Greys Court once again hosted The Darling Buds of May, an exciting and boldly curated collection of original artworks and handcrafted jewellery by acclaimed local artists Kate Findlay, Sarah Pye, and Janet Richardson. The exhibition brought together three professional contemporary artists whose work continues to evolve with fresh ideas, innovative techniques, and a shared passion for the natural world.
Drawing inspiration from the beauty of Greys Court itself, as well as the surrounding Thames Valley and Chilterns countryside, the 2026 exhibition offered visitors an uplifting and immersive visual experience. Large statement paintings, intricate textile art, small but exquisitely crafted pieces, and stunning solid silver jewellery came together to create a show that was both diverse and harmonious.
Sarah Pye’s work, known for its rich textures and energetic presence, captures the vibrancy of nature while her woodland scenes evoke a deep sense of calm and serenity. Kate Findlay’s striking textile art showcases extraordinary detail through hand‑dyed fabrics and multi‑layered free‑motion stitching, revealing a captivating and contemporary interpretation of the natural world. Completing the trio, Janet Richardson presented her award‑winning handcrafted silver jewellery — elegant, sculptural pieces that reflect both craftsmanship and artistic sensitivity.
Oxford Sculptors Group
Formed in 2002, 2026 marked the 10th year that Greys Court has hosted the Oxford Sculptors Group, which now consists of over 80 artists from Oxfordshire and across the UK. Like previous years, the sculptures by more than 30 artists were displayed throughout the gardens and within the historic Cromwellian building .
To celebrate the 10th year anniversary of the National Trust’s partnership with Oxford Sculptors Group, we will be featuring a different sculpture every 2 months on the garden plinth in Greys Court’s apple orchard. For many years, this plinth held a sculpture of Charles Taylor, Lady Brunner’s head gardener, which has now been taken undercover for conservation. It has found in a new home in the Old Gardeners office adjacent to the walled garden.
Are you planning to visit?
Our programme of events and exhibitions for 2027 is currently being created. Please check our events page for details of all future programmes.