In a major coup for Norfolk, the prestigious Animal Art Fair has chosen to hold its Spring Exhibition within Stody Lodge’s rhododendron and azalea gardens near Holt. The Animal Art Fair showcases the UK’s foremost contemporary animal artists. Founded in London in 2010, it is now a leading dealer in its field and represents artists working in a wide variety of mediums and styles, from the cutting edge to the traditional, bronzes to oils, etchings to watercolours.

Stody Lodge Gardens is renowned for its extensive collection of rhododendrons and azaleas which burst into spectacular coloureach Spring. Over a five-week period, a riot of different shades develop through the garden, from the bold pinks and purples of the tall rhododendrons towering over more delicate acid-coloured azaleas, to the paler hues of bluebells and lily of the valley below.

A group of the Animal Art Fair's leading sculptors will exhibit their works within the gardens of Stody Lodge throughout May. Visitors will be able to follow winding pathways under canopies of rhododendron blooms to discover beautiful life size pieces within the different areas of Stody Lodge's 14-acre garden. The Animal Art Fair Sculpture Gardens exhibition is open to the public 1pm – 5pm every Sunday in May plus 1pm – 5pm on Bank Holiday Monday 25th May.

Alongside the month-long sculpture show, Stody Lodge and The Animal Art Fair will showcase stunning oils, watercolours, drawings and etchings in a specially designed exhibition marquee from 17th to 25th May 2015 (open daily 1pm - 5pm excluding Monday 18th and Saturday 23rd May.) From pop art representations of African animals, traditional watercolours of British game, dramatic contemporary racing images or delightful pencil drawings capturing the character of a much-loved Norfolk terrier, there will be something to suit everyone’s taste and pocket. There will also be a collection of tabletop bronze sculptures with a focus on African and British wildlife.

Kate MacNicol of Stody Lodge Gardens, said: “We are really delighted to have secured this fantastic art exhibition for Norfolk. The gardens are almost overwhelming in their colour throughout May and the sculptures will look sensational in and around its many rhododendrons and azaleas. We look forward to welcoming everyone – not just art and gardening enthusiasts but all those looking for a fun and unique afternoon out.”

Jamie Polk, Founder and Director of the Animal Art Fair, said: “Having holidayed in Norfolk for many years I have seen first hand both the creativity and passion for wildlife within the county. Holding our Spring Exhibition within Stody Lodge’s exceptional gardens is a perfect fit for us: beautiful art in beautiful surroundings. The artists we have selected to take part in the exhibition offer something for everyone and we are delighted to be introducing some of the UK’s leading animal artists to this very special county.’

Exhibiting artists include Guy Allen, Ashley Boone, Lucy Boydell, Kate Denton, Bruce Little, Ian Edwards, Matt Falle, Tom Hiscocks, Michelle McCullagh and James Wild.

Entrance £5 (children under 12 free).