A History of Signs and Objects

A history of

SIGNS AND OBJECTS at Little Sparta

Photos by Patrick Eyres

SIGNS

Signs have always played an important role in the garden at Little Sparta – both as artworks but also as statements – particularly in relation to the authorities with whom Finlay was in conflict over the years.

They chart the course of the garden from its earliest days as Stonypath, through its transformation into an Arcadian garden – Little Sparta – and how it received and repelled visitors and invaders.

Though many were only temporary they contain universal truths and observations and are therefore integral to an understanding of the presence and purpose of the garden itself.

c.1992

ARTWORKS NO LONGER IN THE GARDEN

A small number of works which were originally placed in the garden are no longer there. They were either sold in 'lean' times to finance other pieces, or were removed as it was felt they did not continue to fit within the overall composition of the space. Their presence and absence is recorded in the following pictures.

1968

1975

1973

c.1992

1978

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Copyright © Little Sparta Trust May 2020 Photos copyright Patrick Eyres Scottish charity no SC023222

Little Sparta Stonypath Dunsyre ML11 8NG