Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens

Historic home, artist's studio and gardens

The Sculpture Gardens provides visitors of all ages a rare look at the life’s work of a truly American sculptor. Born in Alabama, Ann Vaughn Weaver drew from the time she was 5 years old and received her first sculpting tool at age 8. Ann attended Smith College and subsequently moved to New York to study at the National Academy of Design, Arts Student League of New York and Cooper Union.

The artist’s studio containing works in bronze, stone and wood, encompasses over 4 decades of sculpture and several artistic periods and concepts by the artist. Her works in Northern Cedar “Gateways” are abstract yet warm, inviting and remarkably avant-garde even by today’s standards. Her carving strokes are rhythmical and at times hypnotic, creating a uniform textured surface on the wood. The larger works, some standing over 12ft tall, are remarkable given her petite size. The works inhabit the studio, like a forest alluring the visitor, a gateway to understanding Ann.

The gardens contain monumental sculptures built directly in the gardens for the gardens which invoke mystery and surprise as we happen upon them while walking through rare palms. Rarely are we able to see such an idyllic completed picture of an artist’s vision in its true and intended surroundings. The gardens, designed in concert with Sir Peter Smithers, was the last part to Ann Weaver Norton’s concept for her work, her legacy. The gardens represent her commitment to conservation and the preservation of a quiet retreat in the midst of high rises.

We want to welcome you to visit this cultural gem in downtown West Palm Beach and share this remarkable legacy of Ann’s.                                                                                                                                                                              

 Cynthia Palmieri, Director