Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden: A Stanford Oasis
Discover a hidden oasis of Melanesian art at Stanford's Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden, featuring captivating wood and stone carvings in a serene, wooded setting, a testament to cross-cultural collaboration.
Tucked away on the Stanford University campus, the Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden offers a unique and tranquil escape into the art and culture of the Sepik River region. Created in 1994 by ten master carvers from Papua New Guinea, the garden features over 40 striking wood and stone sculptures nestled within a grove of oak and cedar trees. These sculptures depict ancestral figures, mythical beings, and clan stories, providing a fascinating glimpse into Melanesian traditions. The garden is a place for contemplation and appreciation, where art and nature intertwine to create a serene and educational experience. Visitors can explore the diverse collection of carvings, learn about the artists' stories, and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Papua New Guinea, all within the heart of Silicon Valley. Open year-round and free to the public, it's a hidden gem that offers a refreshing contrast to the surrounding university environment.
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 a weekday for a quieter experience and easier parking, though weekend parking is often free.
- Join the free guided tour offered by the Cantor Arts Center on the fourth Sunday of each month for in-depth insights.
- Take your time to read the informational plaques near each sculpture to fully appreciate the stories and cultural significance behind the artwork.
- 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 peaceful atmosphere of the garden, surrounded by oak and cedar trees.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Cantor Arts Center, walk south towards Lomita Drive. Turn left onto Lomita Drive and continue past the intersection with Santa Teresa Street. The Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden will be on your left, a short walk from the intersection. The walk is approximately 15 minutes and offers a pleasant stroll through the Stanford campus.
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Public Transport
From the Palo Alto Caltrain station, transfer to the Stanford Marguerite Shuttle. Take the 'Line P' bus towards the campus oval and disembark at the 'Santa Teresa Street @ Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden' stop. From there, the garden is a short walk away. The Marguerite Shuttle is free.
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Driving
From El Camino Real, turn onto University Avenue towards Stanford University. Continue onto Palm Drive, then turn right onto Museum Way. Make a left onto Lomita Drive. The Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden will be on the right. Limited metered parking is available along Lomita Drive and nearby streets for $1.25 per day. Parking is generally easier to find on weekends.
Discover more about Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden
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