Renowned contemporary artist Liam Bononi is set to showcase his hyper-realistic portraits at Ashridge House in Hertfordshire, as part of a unique street art exhibition featuring works by 20 artists. The Grade I-listed house, known for its rich history as a royal residence and military hospital, is opening its doors to a new wave of visitors with this innovative art project.
The artists, including WRDSMTH and Curtis Hylton, will be transforming the 190 acres of Grade II-listed gardens surrounding Ashridge House with their creative interpretations inspired by the property’s past. Marketing director Lucy Le Gassicke expressed excitement about the collaboration with street art festival Upfest, aiming to attract a diverse audience to the stately home and gardens.
“We’ve got 20 artists lined up and every one has blown us away with the quality of art,” said Mrs. Le Gassicke. “Each one of them will bring a different angle and style, with some specialising in nature and others a bit more traditional urban art.” The artworks, about the size of a van, promise to add a contemporary twist to the historic setting.
The Upfest Art House exhibition opens on 4 August and runs until 15 September, offering visitors a chance to explore the grounds in a new light. Head gardener Zora Tyrene hopes that the street art trail will lead visitors to discover hidden gems of the garden that are often overlooked.
With this bold and unexpected venture into the world of street art, Ashridge House is breaking boundaries and inviting art enthusiasts and history buffs alike to experience a fusion of tradition and modernity in a truly unique setting.
