Our biennial sculpture exhibition returns for the third time this summer but will, for the first time, include a special interactive commissioned sculpture which visitors will be able to add to themselves and children will be encouraged to touch and explore. This is an exciting opportunity for visitors to not only see the work on display created by the sculptors, but to be part of a unique piece of work.

Situated next to the Gatehouse, the large piece was created by willow sculptor Carole Beavis and depicts a huge dragon, which children can get to know better by walking under its wings and entering its hollow belly! It has been built during the first week of July, and visitors enjoyed being able to see Carole at work with materials from the Estate.

Whilst the exhibition is open, from 30 July to 11 September, visitors will be asked to tie a piece of fabric to the dragon, adding colour and texture, as if skin, scales or even fire! It is hoped that this sculpture (which will not be for sale) will help visitors gain a fresh perspective of the creative process plus adding textiles will be a tactile experience, inspiring our visitors of all ages to consider creating art themselves.  Families are invited to share their experience on social media #SculptureAtDoddington.

The funding to carry out this project has been awarded by the Lincoln Cultural and Arts Partnership (LCAP) through the Cultural Destinations fund which is supported by the National Lottery through Arts Council England and Visit England. The Cultural Destinations project aims to bring together the cultural and visitor economy sectors to support economic growth and we are grateful for this grant.

Emma Tatlow, Head of Visit Lincoln said, on behalf of LCAP: “As the Lincoln Cultural & Arts Partnership we are constantly working on initiatives to strengthen the cultural offer in the region – and so encouraging visitors to both the city and its nearby attractions. This popular sculpture event will bring new visitors to the area, who will doubtless enjoy other tourist attractions whilst they are with us, plus it offers something new to the many people who return as they love visiting Lincoln. The exhibition is a quality event at a delightful attraction so we are very happy to support it in creating something which is designed for interaction.”

The dragon is now sitting happily on our lawn… just waiting for the first material to be tied on… and we hope you can stop by and visit!

I’m the #DoddingtonDragon

You can go inside me but don’t climb on to me!

Please give me scales and feathers by tying fabric on to me!