For the first time in its history, Tate is set to participate in the iconic Chelsea Flower Show in 2026, marking a groundbreaking collaboration between art and horticulture. The Tate Britain Garden, designed by the acclaimed landscape architect Tom Stuart-Smith, a nine-time RHS Chelsea gold medal winner, will bring elements of Tate's renowned art collection to this prestigious gardening event, often dubbed the Glastonbury of the horticultural world.
A Fusion of Art and Nature
The garden celebrates the vital role that museums play in offering green spaces to the public, drawing inspiration from Tate's extensive art holdings. Specifically, it pays homage to Victor Pasmore's abstract oil painting, 'The Green Earth 1979-80', which is part of the gallery's permanent collection. This artistic influence will be woven into the garden's design, creating a lush and immersive environment.
Centerpiece: Barbara Hepworth's 'Bicentric Form'
At the heart of the Tate Britain Garden will sit a significant sculpture by Dame Barbara Hepworth, titled 'Bicentric Form'. Created in 1949, this limestone piece holds historical importance as the first Hepworth work acquired by Tate. The sculpture will be nestled within a verdant oasis featuring leopard plants, magnolia flowers, and pomegranate and fig trees, evoking a serene, Eden-like atmosphere.
Showcasing Global Talent
Tate's display will be among over 400 exhibits at the Chelsea Flower Show, highlighting the expertise of the world's top landscapers and horticulturalists. Launched in 1913, the event continues to thrive, attracting approximately 160,000 botany enthusiasts and plant lovers annually, making it a cornerstone of London's cultural calendar.
Post-Show Legacy: The Clore Garden
After the flower show concludes, the Tate Britain Garden will be relocated to Tate's Millbank gallery, where it will become part of a broader initiative known as the Clore Garden. This project, scheduled to open in 2027, will feature a golden water channel that winds around a stone path, both leading to a central bench crafted from recycled materials, including paving from Tate Britain and cockleshells sourced from the Thames Estuary.
Event Details and Broader Context
The RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026 is scheduled to run from Tuesday, May 19, to Saturday, May 23, at the Royal Hospital Chelsea. This debut aligns with other cultural developments in London, such as the upcoming opening of the Museum of Youth Culture and the refurbishment of the Princess Diana Memorial Playground, underscoring the city's dynamic arts and leisure scene.
