Where to see sculpture in Yorkshire
Contemporary art parks, historic houses, major museums. Experience the art of sculpture at one of these inspiring venues.
From its striking landscapes to its historic buildings, to its iconic exports (we all know who makes the best tea), Yorkshire isn't known as God's own country for nothing.
In fact, it is often heralded as the home of modern British sculpture, as both Barbara Hepworth and Henry Moore were born in the cathedral city of Wakefield. These pioneers of 20th-century art created important sculptural works that redefined the three-dimensional art form and left a lasting mark on modern art and Yorkshire's cultural heritage.
Today, the region commemorates its sculptural legacy with an abundance of historic houses, art parks, contemporary art galleries and major museums where you can learn about the art of sculpture and experience significant sculpture collections and exhibition programmes that will entertain, educate and inspire.
Whether you're in York, Leeds or Wakefield, dive into our round-up of some of the best places where you can experience sculpture in Yorkshire. And with a National Art Pass, you'll unlock savings at every venue.
Did you know? The Hepworth Wakefield and Art Fund are fundraising to save a vital work by Barbara Hepworth. Find out more about the campaign and how you can help.
Where can I see sculpture in Yorkshire with an Art Pass?
The Hepworth Wakefield
Named after a pioneer of modern British sculpture, Barbara Hepworth, The Hepworth Wakefield is tucked in a bend on the River Calder. Its concrete, sculptural building overlooks the historic waterfront and a free public garden, where art and nature collide. Marvel at outdoor sculptures by Hepworth herself and contemporary artists including Halima Cassell and Michael Craig-Martin.
Inside, you'll encounter a programme of major exhibitions championing international and local artists, plus displays exploring Hepworth's art and creative process. Don't miss The Hepworth Family Gift gallery, a permanent exhibition spotlighting her studio environment with equipment, sketches, materials and working casts of sculptures that still show marks from Hepworth's tools.
Yorkshire Sculpture Park
Whether you're looking to get into nature or get inspired by culture, Yorkshire Sculpture Park promises an unforgettable day out that blends the two. Explore 500 acres of landscape decorated with monumental works of sculpture by pioneers in the field – from modern masters such as Barbara Hepworth and Henry Moore to contemporary creators like Damien Hirst, Thomas J Price and Katrina Palmer. Visitors can dive into a series of temporary exhibitions throughout the year that are staged across indoor gallery spaces and the parkland.
Henry Moore Institute
Looking for inspiring sculpture exhibitions? Or perhaps you're wanting to expand your knowledge on the three-dimensional art form? The Henry Moore Institute in the heart of Leeds is a contemporary art space that programmes free sculpture exhibitions. And, it's home to a sculpture research library and an archive dedicated to sculptors' papers. These provide a fascinating insight into the working lives of British sculptors, from the Victorian era to contemporary artists working today.
Leeds Art Gallery
From the Henry Moore Institute, pop next door and you'll arrive at Leeds Art Gallery, where you'll be greeted by one of Moore's iconic bronze sculptures of a reclining semi-abstract figure. Step inside the restored Victorian building and explore an array of gallery spaces hosting temporary exhibitions and collection displays. Sculptural highlights from the collection include modern and contemporary works by Helen Chadwick, Jacob Epstein, Elisabeth Frink, Anya Gallaccio, Antony Gormley and Barbara Hepworth (to name a few).
Castle Howard
Whether you're a Bridgerton superfan or more of a Barry Lyndon connoisseur, chances are you've seen this Baroque palatial country house in a film or TV period drama. Nestled in the Yorkshire countryside around 15 miles north of York, Castle Howard's collection of art and antiquities makes the interior as spectacular its exterior. In 2024, a landmark exhibition by sculptor Tony Cragg was presented across the house and grounds, contrasting his imaginative contemporary works with the historic architecture and landscapes.
Harewood House
Travel nine miles north of Leeds city centre and you'll arrive at Harewood House, a country home and gardens bursting with history. On top of a Victorian water fountain on the terrace stands a bronze statue of Orpheus with a leopard relaxing over his shoulders. This Greek mythology inspired work was created in 1980 by German-born British sculptor Astrid Zydower. Step into the historic house and you'll encounter Jacob Epstein's monumental alabaster sculpture of the biblical figure of Adam from 1938.
York Art Gallery
A trip to York Art Gallery is a must when visiting the historic walled city. Home to the Centre of Ceramic Art, the gallery holds a significant collection of British Studio Ceramics that chart the movement's development in the 20th century, when pottery in England became a highly respected art form. Collection highlights include works by influential ceramic artists from this time, including Hans Coper, Bernard Leach and Lucie Rie.