William Ricketts lived until he was 94 years old and even into his 90s, his passion and compulsion for his work was clearly evident in video footage of him that is available for viewing at the Sanctuary.
The sculpture work in the gardens is prolific and wonderful but it was Ricketts' views about the importance of connecting with and appreciating nature, and through that, of indigenous Australians, that I found particularly inspiring.
I have had intentions of visiting this Sanctuary for many years and am glad that I finally made the effort to get there. Well worth it... although possibly better saved for a sunnier day :)
A lovely treat at the end of our walk was a visit to Churinga Cafe (which is "conveniently" located near the carpark), where we shared a delicious Devonshire Tea. Wonderful!
I remember going to William Ricketts Sanctuary as a child - it was magical and even a teensy tiny wonderful bit scary as sculptures at times seemed to jump out at us as we explored the paths. Once when we were there we saw a lyrebird that for a brief moment we thought was one of the sculptures until it moved!
ReplyDeleteSounds like a great day out - how tall are those trees!
Your post makes me want to revisit and learn more about the man himself - sounds amazing.
A great memory Yenny, thanks for sharing and how wonderful that you got to see a lyrebird!
DeleteIt looks like a lovely place.
ReplyDeletea good reminder for me of the importance of being out in nature!
ReplyDeleteLove your photos particularly the two with the lights...