Art and Photography at Painshill

Artists and photographers at Painshill

Finding artistic inspiration at Painshill

One of the finest of its kind in the world, the 158-acre Painshill garden was designed as a work of art. It features a series of fascinating follies dotted through the grounds that play games with the imagination. 

Painting by Grace Ellen.

Influenced by Landscape Painters

Inspired by the art and plants he discovered on two Grand Tours of Europe, Charles Hamilton build his own vision of paradise. He collected art, paintings and sculpture, and had many favourite artists. His garden style sees the influence of landscape painters Claude Lorrain, Poussin and Salvator Rosa.

The Influence of Artists

A typical Claudian landscape featured reflective water, eye-catching buildings, delicate trees framing the picture, a distant blue and a golden glow. Rosa painted wilder scenes with rocks, twisted trees and stormy skies. The influence of both artists can be seen in the views at Painshill, where illusion plays an important part. 

Painting by Ausra Viliuniene.

Artists and photographers at Painshill  - Ausra Viliuniene
Artists and photographers at Painshill - Caio Locke

Capture the Scenes

Painshill welcomes non-commercial photography and the garden is a paradise for landscape photography enthusiasts. There are also opportunities all year to capture wildlife and flowers.

The landscape was made to be a garden where you can set up an easel and be presented with a perfect picture to paint. Artists have captured the scenes since the garden was created. We hope you will share you creations and photos with us on social media.

Painting by Caio Locke.

Things to See & Do

Painshill is an award-winning 18th century landscape garden where you are invited to walk around a work of art. Winding paths will take you on a journey to discover a living canvas with beautiful vistas and dramatically placed garden buildings. Stroll around the Serpentine Lake, wander through woodland and promenade past follies, including the Ruined Abbey, Gothic Temple and Turkish Tent.

Painshill map - transparent background