Upstater Destinations: Taconic Sculpture Park

  |  July 11, 2013
womb stone

Womb Stone by Roy Kanwit

Have you ever seen the white giant head while driving northbound on the Taconic Parkway passing through Columbia County? Ever wondered why it’s there, and how it got to be where it is? Well, file it away under “Mystery Solved”, because we got answers. The giant white head is part of a collection of sculptures located in the Taconic Sculpture Park in Spencertown, Columbia County.

Artist Roy Kanwit is behind the impressive, surreal sculpture garden that’s been drawing visitors to his property for decades, and it still remains one of Hudson Valley’s best kept secrets, often overshadowed by bigger names like Storm King and Art Omi. Kanwit’s property is truly a wonder to behold, with sculptures that are both comforting and earthy, and others that are borderline disturbing and startling. Kanwit has clearly been influenced by Greek and Roman mythology and lore, with sculptures depicting the Greek Mother Earth Goddess Gaea, as well as blushes of Egyptian-like deities and Native American art. One thing is for certain: Visiting the park is a unique, transporting experience, and there’s nothing quite like it around. Mr. Kanwit sounds like an interesting fellow, as well. If you’d like to read more about him and his sculpture park, visit his website. It has lots of pictures and information, plus a map to the park.

bird woman

Bird Woman by Roy Kanwit

The Taconic Sculpture Park is open seasonally, 9am-5pm on the weekends or by appointment only. Visit the website for hours or call 518-392-5757 to confirm that he’s open for business. 

taconic sculpture capture

GMAP (go to the end of Sever Hill Road)

About Kandy Harris

Kandy is a writer and musician/music teacher living in Saugerties, NY.

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