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Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden: A Slice of Sepik Culture at Stanford

Discover the captivating art and culture of Papua New Guinea at Stanford University's hidden sculpture garden.

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Nestled within Stanford University's campus, the Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden offers a unique glimpse into the art and traditions of Papua New Guinea. Featuring over 60 sculptures created by master carvers, this tranquil outdoor space provides a harmonious blend of art and nature, inviting visitors to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Sepik River region.

A brief summary to Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden

  • 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 during the fall or summer for the best experience; the fall colors enhance the garden's beauty, while the shaded areas provide comfort in the summer.
  • 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.
  • Parking on campus can be limited, especially during weekdays, so plan accordingly.
  • Take your time to wander through the garden, allowing the sculptures to speak to you and observing the intricate details of the carvings.
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Getting There

  • 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 distance from the intersection. The walk is approximately 15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From the Palo Alto Caltrain station, take the Stanford Marguerite Shuttle (free) to the corner of Santa Teresa Street and Lomita Drive. From there, walk a short distance along Lomita Drive; the garden will be on your left. The shuttle runs frequently during weekdays. Check the Marguerite Shuttle website for schedules.

  • 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 Santa Teresa Street, then turn left onto Lomita Drive. The Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden will be on your left. Parking is available along Santa Teresa Street and Lomita Drive, with rates of $1.25 per hour, enforced during weekdays. Parking is generally easier to find on weekends.

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Discover more about Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden

The Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden at Stanford University is a hidden gem that offers a captivating blend of art and culture. Located in a grove of oak and cedar trees, the garden features over 60 sculptures created by artists from the Sepik River region of Papua New Guinea. These sculptures, carved from wood and stone, depict people, animals, and magical beings that illustrate clan stories and creation myths. The garden's story began in 1994 when Jim Mason, a Stanford anthropology graduate student, facilitated a cultural exchange, bringing ten artists from Papua New Guinea to the university. During their residency, the artists created a variety of large-scale works, including relief-carved poles, free-standing figures, and painted posts. The garden is organized into four zones, each representing a different aspect of Sepik culture. Near the entrance, a large wooden eagle sits atop the shoulders of an ancestress, resembling the finials that adorn Iatmul cult houses. Behind the eagle, a cluster of tall wooden poles showcases intricate Iatmul and Kwoma motifs. Brightly painted Kwoma poles form another aesthetic cluster, while the third area features large sculptures in pumice stone. The garden also features unique interpretations of Western sculptures, such as Rodin's "The Thinker" and "The Gates of Hell". These sculptures offer a fascinating commentary on cultural exchange and artistic inspiration. The Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden provides a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of campus life. Visitors can wander through the shaded pathways, admire the intricate carvings, and contemplate the stories they represent. Educational plaques accompany many of the sculptures, offering insights into their origins and significance.

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