In the 1950s, the artist Dorothy Reister and her husband purchased land for a summer home in Cazenovia, New York. They added acres when land became available then turned the place into a sculpture garden, creating hiking trails, as well a sculpture studio attached to their mid-century modern A-frame home.
The property transformed into the incorporated non-profit Stone Quarry Hill Art Park, recognized by National Geographic magazine as one of the top sculpture gardens in the nation, and home to permanent and temporary sculptures by such renowned sculptors as Rodger Mack and Emilie Brzezinski. Now the home and art studio on the property are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is open to the public to enjoy. Today was the perfect day to hike the trails and fall in love with the hidden sculpture gems playing peek-a-boo around every corner.
I am on vacation this week, Spring Break. I spent a few hours investigating several trails and breathing the fresh air of this space with my high school pal Suzy, who is a fellow teacher. There was really no one else around – it was a serene and wonderful experience.
I highly recommend coming here, especially if you have kids at home this week and are looking for something to do. I brought students to Stone Quarry Hill on a school field trip a few years ago and they loved it. There truly is a surprise around every corner!
Suggested donation is $5 at the front entrance. If you wish to donate to the upkeep of the park or volunteer, there is more information on their website – here
Several events are upcoming – kite flying, an art exhibition in the indoor space, and a YMCA summer camp experience. All information is on their website – here.
