Yasmin Burke's Fine Art Portfolio.

In the summer of 2023, I had the opportunity to explore Howick Hall Gardens. Commencing with the hall, originally designed and constructed by Newcastle architect William Newton in 1782, its history took a significant turn after a devastating fire ravaged its interior in 1926. The subsequent rebuild in 1928, under the direction of Sir Herbert Baker, transformed the hall into a family home by 1973. Upon visiting, the ground floor, now accessible to the public, hosts an exhibition showcasing the family's legacy. Additionally, my exploration extended to the adjacent church, an early Victorian structure, surrounded by a graveyard adorned with numerous memorials dedicated to members of the Grey family. Delving into the Howick Hall Gardens, I discovered the remarkable work of Charles, 5th Earl Grey, his wife Mabel, and their daughter Lady Mary Howick, spanning from 1920 to 2001. Notably, the sensory garden, a recent addition completed in 2018, holds a special allure. This garden was conceived in collaboration with the North Northumberland Branch of the National Autistic Society and funded by the National Garden Scheme. It was masterfully designed by professional garden designer Natasha McEwen. My experience at Howick Hall Gardens was immensely fulfilling, offering opportunities for photography and immersion in nature within a rich historical backdrop. The juxtaposition of traditional and contemporary elements, epitomized by the incorporation of the sensory garden, underscores the evolution of ideals within this space, which I found truly captivating.