Connecting art, nature and fun: artist Bruce Asbestos' new project with Ilam Park.
- Published:
- 07 April 2025
- Time to read:
- 3 minutes
Acclaimed artist Bruce Asbestos is working with us on an exciting new project this summer. He's creating a new sculpture inspired by the famous view of Thorpe Cloud and getting involved with creative workshops for visitors, schools and college students.
International artist inspired by iconic Ilam Park view
Bruce Asbestos is a contemporary artist, fast growing in popularity amongst audiences of all ages, with work showcased around the globe.
Known for a sense of fun and a modern take on historic places, Bruce's latest display is at the Tate Modern, this April.
The artist, who lives and works in Nottingham, has given some clues about what his new artwork will look like: “I was impressed by the stunning view of Thorpe Cloud, when I first arrived. As I was looking into the distance, I stepped forward onto a mole hill. When I looked at the view again, I thought it almost looked like a giant mole hill on the horizon.
“For me, creating art, is also about trying to pull out the fun from a space. Those are the only clues I will give away about what my new sculpture looks like at this stage.”
Re-establishing Ilam Park as a home for artists
Ilam Park has been inspiring artists for centuries. A view of Thorpe Cloud was painted onto a plate made for Empress Catherine the Great of Russia in the 1770s, which was part of the ‘Green Frog Service’, created by famous pottery maker Josiah Wedgwood.
For our new National Trust artwork, Bruce has been inspired to reduce environmental impact through his arts practice and will use reusable materials for his sculpture. He’s been working over the last year to generate new works from recycled plastic and wood.
Uplifting and unique experience within the Peak District
Craig Best, General Manager of the National Trust in the Peak District said: “This is an incredibly exciting project for us. It is interesting to see a bold and popular artist work within one of our spaces and offer a brand-new take on a property like Ilam Park, as this site has been inspiring creativity for centuries.
“We want to encourage all our visitors, who come from near and far, to enjoy spending time at Ilam Park and we’re hoping they’ll be uplifted by Bruce’s new art creation.”
Arts Council England funded project
Families and younger audiences often like Bruce’s work and he says: “I try not to ask people to think or feel a certain way, or interpret a certain message when they see my new sculpture. I’m always excited to see a huge range of reactions to a piece of my artwork,” he says.
This project is funded by Arts Council England, and visitors will get a first glimpse of the new sculpture at its launch in July. It will be on display throughout the summer holidays, until October, and viewing will be free of charge.
Schools and public workshops
Workshops with three different schools are taking place with Bruce over the coming months, where students get to design their own artwork. The public can also get involved with some special workshops that are being hosted this summer, which you can sign up for. More details will be released very soon.