Yorkshire Artspace and Green Estate would be thrilled if you could join us on Friday 6th May from 2pm onwards to celebrate the official opening of Manor Oaks Studios and the Future Nature Garden.

From 2pm onwards there will be much to do and much to see. Here are just some of the highlights;

* The Exhibition ‘Lords, Ladies and Apron Men’ consists of 9 stoneware ceramic chargers decorated using oxide and luster, created by Green Estate staff members Kyle, Danny, Kyle, Charlie, Bob, Don, Andy and Matt. Yorkshire Artspace commissioned artist Emilie Taylor to work with the team of apprentices and their team leaders to explore issues of masculinity in the Renaissance period and the present day. "Images were developed to incorporate historical symbolism alongside contemporary iconography from the men's daily lives, including their role as part of Green Estate. The plates celebrate the current Renaissance or re-birth of the Manor, and recognise the role of local people in developing the site both historically and today".

* All the beautiful new Manor Oaks Studios will be open to the public. Annette Petch (silver jewellery), Finbarr Lucas (furniture and sculpture in wood) and Susan Disley (ceramics) will be welcoming visitors with work on display and for sale.

* In our Starter Studio for Ceramicists, Manor Oaks resident artist Frances Priest will be providing an update on her project to design a table setting for the Turret House Banqueting Room at Manor Lodge assisted by starter ceramicists Joel Neild and Miles Gavin.

* In the Manor Oaks Studios courtyard, Yorkshire Artspace ceramicists Penny Withers, Sarah Villeneau and Hanne Westergaard will be showing their garden pots.

* Make your own Mini Beasty Box for your home garden – a fun family activity with Green Estate’s Community and Education officer Anna Plant.

* Dr Nigel Dunnett, Reader in Urban Horticulture at the University of Sheffield, will be speaking about the development of the Future Nature Garden and all the features within it. The original garden was designed by ARK DM Ltd. architects Adrian Hallam and Chris Arrowsmith and horticulturalist Dr Dunnett for the 2009 RHS Chelsea Flower show where it achieved a Silver Gilt Award.

* Green Estate will be launching the new HLF funded South Yorkshire Local History Centre located above the Farmshop Café.

* Enjoy fresh strawberries & cream on sale from the Farmshop Café.

Manor Oaks Studios and Future Nature Garden are located 389 Manor Lane, Sheffield S2 1UL. Parking on site or nearby.  For directions click here