Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden: A Cultural Oasis at Stanford
Discover the captivating Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden at Stanford University: a unique outdoor museum showcasing Melanesian art and culture in a serene, wooded setting.
The Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden at Stanford University offers a captivating glimpse into the art and culture of Papua New Guinea. Created in 1994 by ten artists from the Sepik River region, the garden features over 60 remarkable sculptures carved from wood and stone, depicting myths, legends, and ancestral figures. Nestled in a serene grove of oak and cedar trees, the garden provides a tranquil escape and a unique opportunity to experience traditional Melanesian artistry within a Western academic setting. Visitors can explore the garden's winding paths, admire the intricate carvings, and learn about the cultural significance of each piece through informative plaques. The garden is a testament to cross-cultural collaboration and a celebration of Papua New Guinea's rich artistic heritage, offering a thought-provoking and visually stunning experience for all.
A brief summary to Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden
- 476 Lomita Dr, Stanford, California, 94305, US
- +1650-723-2300
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit on the fourth Sunday of the month for a free guided tour led by the Cantor Arts Center docents to gain deeper insights into the sculptures and their cultural significance.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Cantor Arts Center and Rodin Sculpture Garden for a comprehensive art experience on the Stanford campus.
- Bring a picnic and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the garden, surrounded by the beauty of the sculptures and the natural setting.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown Menlo Park, take the Stanford Marguerite Shuttle. Find the nearest shuttle stop on Santa Cruz Avenue and board the shuttle heading towards Stanford University. Stay on the shuttle until you reach the stop for Lomita Drive. From there, walk up Lomita Drive towards the Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden, located at 476 Lomita Dr. The walk is approximately 5 minutes from the shuttle stop. The Stanford Marguerite Shuttle is free.
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Walking
If starting from the Menlo Park Caltrain station, exit the station and head northwest on Santa Cruz Avenue. Continue straight until you reach El Camino Real. Turn left onto El Camino Real and walk for about 0.5 miles. After crossing University Avenue, continue straight until you reach the Stanford University campus entrance. Follow signs towards Lomita Drive. Walk on Lomita Drive for about 0.3 miles; the Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden is at 476 Lomita Dr on your right. This walk is approximately 1.5 miles.
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Driving
From El Camino Real, turn onto University Avenue towards Stanford University. Continue onto Palm Drive, then turn left onto Campus Drive. Turn right onto Lomita Drive. The Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden will be on your left at 476 Lomita Drive. Parking on campus is limited and can be problematic, especially during weekdays. Parking is available for $1.25 per day at designated parking machines.
Discover more about Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden
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