Women's Sculpture Garden Faces Closure

The Artist’s Garden, a public sculpture park established to showcase the work of female artists, is facing closure. TheColab, the arts charity operating the garden, has been informed by Places for London, Transport for London’s property division, that their licence to occupy the site will not be renewed after 1 October 2024. This decision means the garden must be cleared from the Temple underground station roof terrace.

Reasons for Closure Disputed

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A spokesperson for Places for London stated that the terrace and station roof may require essential repair and safety works. They indicated that the space needs to be cleared to allow for an assessment of the extent of these necessary works. Places for London also stated they are working with Westminster city council and local stakeholders to explore alternative locations for the garden and to develop future plans for the Temple terrace.

However, Claire Mander, director and curator of theColab, disputes the stated reasons for the eviction. Mander claims the repairs are connected to upgrades for commercial property situated beneath the terrace. She further stated that the scope of works described does not include a large-scale overhaul of the roof itself. Mander suggested the space could be repurposed for VIP events and commercial activities.

A Unique Cultural Space

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The Artist’s Garden opened in October 2021, funded by donations and over £500,000 from Westminster council. It is recognised as the world’s first and only public sculpture garden dedicated to female artists. Since its inception, the garden has attracted approximately 100,000 visitors each year. It has also commissioned 18 major works and collaborated with 24 artists, both emerging and established.

Mander believes the site is at risk of being transferred to a private developer. She described the location as prime, offering exceptional views of the river, making it suitable for commercial events. Mander expressed concern that the charity's work is being underestimated, and stated the organisation is prepared to take legal action to save the garden. A campaign and petition have been launched to support the garden.

“It seems that women have to become warriors now and defend our right to take up space there.”

Linder Sterling, artist

Alexandra Hodby, head of programmes at Yorkshire Sculpture Park and a trustee of the gardens, highlighted the significant cultural and economic value such spaces provide. She compared the garden's potential impact to that of New York's High Line, which was transformed into a public space through art. Hodby emphasised that sculpture has a unique ability to engage the public directly, without the separation found in gallery settings.

The garden aims to address gender disparity in public art. A survey by Art UK indicated that a small percentage of London's monuments are dedicated to women, and only 13% of public sculptures are created by women. Artists using the space have spoken about its importance in providing visibility and inspiration. Florence Peake, an artist who created work for the garden, noted the rarity of free public spaces in London without a commercial agenda, offering a place for reflection.

What Happens Next

TheColab is actively campaigning to save the Artist’s Garden. The outcome of discussions regarding alternative locations and the assessment of necessary repairs by Places for London remain unclear.