Every spring there were rumors. Spring turned to summer. Summer to fall, winter, and back around the sun again. I had been waiting for years, but it finally happened! May of 2017, the Donald M. Kendall Sculpture Gardens [700 Anderson Hill Rd, Purchase, NY 10577] officially reopened after a long hiatus. I colloquially call the place the Pepsi Sculpture Park, because it sits at the world headquarters for Pepsi. It was founded by and named for the former chairman of PepsiCo. The park is free to visit, opened seasonally 10-4 on weekends so it does not impact business operations. The layout is circular, making it easy to view all 45 works and not miss a beat. The park has a really great variety of works including some famous names like Joan Miro,
modern pieces,
plays off of classics,
obscure,
and abstract ideas.
Spring couldn’t have been a more beautiful time to visit as the flowering trees were in full bloom.
The park takes on an arboretum air labeling trees and wildlife is abundant. Be sure to look for the koi in the vast pond, glimmering in the sunshine.
Frogs are by the pools filled with lily pads, they even have a dedicated sculpture.
If you are lucky enough to discover the secreted Stream Garden path behind the gate, you’ll find plenty more. This quiet spur was my favorite treasure within the park, with its meditative qualities.
I am so pleased this peaceful place is opened up to the public once more.
+Close by: Neuberger Art Museum across the street at SUNY Purchase