World Renowned Stickwork Sculptor Patrick Dougherty Begins New Work on Cape Cod

  • FALMOUTH, Massachusetts
  • /
  • May 20, 2019

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Patrick Dougherty, A Waltz in the Woods

Internationally-acclaimed sculptor Patrick Dougherty brings Stickwork to Highfield Hall and Gardens, beginning June 3, in the Cape Cod village of Falmouth, Mass. Drawing inspiration from the area, Dougherty will work with a team of community volunteers over a three-week period to create and build a site-specific, one-of-a kind, large-scale stick sculpture of woven branches on Highfield’s front lawn.

From Monday-Friday, June 3-21, the public is invited to visit Highfield to observe as the sculpture takes form and progresses daily.

On Sunday, June 30, the completed Stickwork at Highfield will formally open to the public during the annual summer Open House. And, those interested in an advance peek can purchase tickets to the Highfield Celebrates! annual gala on Friday, June 21, from 6-10:30 p.m., where Dougherty will share his inspiration, ideas, and process — and unveil the sculpture’s name. Hands-on activities and exhibits in Highfield’s educational room will enhance the Stickwork experience for visitors.

Patrick Dougherty, A Waltz in the Woods

Dougherty’s sculptures have been described as dynamic works that walk a fine line between architecture, landscape, and art. Each installation is an act of discovery for the sculptor, where he challenges himself to create and build a whimsical and elegant structure made entirely of woven and wrapped branches within a limited timeframe.

Dougherty has been investigating the process of weaving and binding saplings and ephemeral matter since the 1980s and embraces it for its transient nature. Over the last 30 years, he has created more than 250 evocative and engaging sculptures that have been seen worldwide — from Scotland to Japan to Brussels and across the United States.

Dougherty first toured the seaside village of Falmouth and Highfield Hall & Gardens in 2018 to gather ideas for his preliminary design concepts.

 “We are excited to bring this celebrated sculptor to Cape Cod to engage with our community,” said Nancy H. Porter, chair of the board of trustees and interim executive director of Highfield. “We love that Mr. Dougherty’s work combines art and nature, furthering our commitment to provide exhibitions that inspire and engage all ages. As a destination for outdoor exploration, Highfield’s gardens and wooded walking paths are the perfect complement to his rustic style.”

Stickwork at Highfield is made possible with the generous support of sponsors: The Hermann Foundation, Hutker Architects, and the Rockland Trust Charitable Foundation.

For information about the daily viewing schedule of the Stickwork construction and other activities, visit highfieldhallandgardens.org.

Highfield Hall & Gardens is open April 15 through October 31: Tuesday-Friday and Monday holidays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. Admission is $8 adults, $5 seniors, and free for members, children and those in the military. The gardens and grounds are open daily from dawn to dusk. Highfield Hall is wheelchair accessible, and handicapped parking is available. For more information, visit highfieldhallandgardens.org or call 508-495-1878, ext. 2.


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