Renowned gardening expert Alan Titchmarsh MBE will open a new exhibition at Woburn Abbey next week, which celebrates the bicentenary of Humphry Repton and his influential work for the Dukes of Bedford.
Recognised as the first person to invent and use the title ‘landscape gardener’, Humphry Repton regarded himself as the rightful successor to Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown.
Repton produced over 400 designs and schemes for gardens great and small, but of these, he stated, “none were more fully realised than at Woburn Abbey”.
He published his theories in two influential books, Observations on the Theory and Practice of Landscape Gardening (1803), and Fragments on the Theory and Practice of Landscape Gardening (1816). In these, he promotes his style and references his important work for the Duke of Bedford.
Exhibition - Humphry Repton: Art & Nature for the Duke of Bedford
Open to the public between March 23 and October 28, 2018, the new exhibition explores the fascinating relationship between Repton and one of his greatest clients.
On public display for visitors to see for the first time will be his most elaborate and comprehensive ‘Red Book’, his famous presentation document of proposed designs. His Red Book for Woburn was commissioned in 1804 and illustrates his innovative plans for the Pleasure Grounds and Park, many of which were subsequently realised by the 6th Duke of Bedford.
In addition, the exhibition will give guests the opportunity to discover Repton’s other works for the family including at the picturesque Devon estate of Endsleigh, Oakley House and Russell Square in London.
Never before seen unexecuted designs will feature alongside works of art and archival treasures, which bring to life the creative legacy of Repton. There will also be Repton-related family trails, activities and events throughout the year.
The Duchess of Bedford said: ‘I am very happy to welcome Alan Titchmarsh to Woburn Abbey. The Abbey will be a major player in the national celebrations, supporting the work of The Gardens Trust and giving Humphry Repton the prominence he deserves.’
Alan Titchmarsh MBE added: ‘I am delighted to be opening an exhibition which celebrates the work of a man whose prime object was to beautify the land surrounding a fine country house and to help house and garden work in harmony. Repton and his 'Red Books’ well deserve their place in the history of British landscape gardening.’
Martin Towsey, the estate gardens manager is pictured above with the Red Book.
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