The sun shone at last for what was the event’s 20^th anniversary and the 5^th anniversary of Graysons Solicitors sponsoring the event, which was attended by Sheffield’s Lord Mayor and Phil Oakley from the Human League.

Over 300 exhibitors had thousands of pieces of artwork and crafts on show at what is widely recognised as the largest outdoor art events in the North of England.

Graysons’ stand enjoyed record attendance and our giveaways, including garden kneeling mats and mugs adorned with Alan Pennington’s illustrations were as popular as ever.  A new addition to our freebies this year were tennis balls – enjoyed by the dogs who enjoyed the water we always have at the tent for them. We were delighted to say hello to clients as well as greet those who just popped along to say hello.  It was also great to see those who came to view Alan’s artwork.  Alan, with whom Graysons has a long-standing relationship and who has created many original works for Graysons, exhibited some of his artwork at the stand.

Graysons commissioned Alan to create a celebration birthday piece for Art in the Gardens a few weeks before the event with managing partner, Peter Clark, saying:

“As it’s the event’s 20^th year and our fifth year of sponsorship, we thought we’d like to do something a bit different to mark it.  Alan’s designs have always adorned our promotional giveaways and we are delighted with his birthday celebration piece.”

Sheffield Young Artists, which is organised by Sheffield Abbeydale Rotary and sponsored by Graysons, held a stand at the exhibition too.  They reported a fantastic number of people interested in their work, which is created by children aged 5 – 18 from schools across the city. Work by Ukrainian children, also sponsored by Graysons, was on display too.

More children than ever entered Graysons’ children’s annual art competition that will be judged by Alan Pennington.

Peter Clark, said:

“It is a privilege to celebrate our fifth anniversary of being the premier sponsor of Art in the Gardens, especially on its own 20^th anniversary. It is amazing how many talented artists there are out there, and it was fantastic to be able to celebrate the talent in our region once again.”