'Sculpture in Context' celebrating 30 years and showcasing the work of Irish and International artists will once again return to the National Botanic Gardens. Sculpture receives a spectacular presentation in the Garden, which is laid out in a variety of settings, winding through the 50 acres of landscaped grounds. As you weave your way through the garden, you will discover sculptures in the most unexpected and surprising places. Ranging in size and materials, these works of art represent the richly diverse character of Irish and International contemporary sculpture today.

The Minister said, "It is my great pleasure to be here today in this wonderful botanical haven. The Gardens, managed by my office, the OPW, provide a magnificent backdrop to this wonderful exhibition, which will run from Thursday 3 September to Friday 16 October 2015. I recommend attending the Artist led guided tours, provided every Saturday at 3pm for the duration of the exhibition to gain a valuable insight into the works and the various processes used.'

The aim of the exhibition is to provide a unique opportunity for exhibiting works in venues outside of the normal gallery context and the artwork is produced using a wide range of materials including bronze, ceramic, glass, copper, steel and stone.

The Minister concluded 'This is a wonderful opportunity to view Ireland's well established artists along with our most promising future artists and to gain an insight into our country's most exciting and contemporary art. The National Botanic Gardens has a long association with this exhibition and I am delighted to note the 'The New Ireland Assurance Sculpture Award' introduced last year is one of the largest prizes for sculpture in Ireland. I therefore urge the public to visit this exciting and open exhibition here in the National Botanic Gardens.'

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For further information and if you wish to interview Minister of State Harris please contact the OPW Press Office at 046 942 6078 or email opwpressoffice@opw.ie

Note to Editors:

Further information on the exhibition is available at www.sculptureincontext.com or email: info@sculptureincontext.com

Photography available after the event from: www.maxwellphotography.ie

Admission: Free

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday & Sunday 10am - 6pm Botanic Garden Café open daily

Car Park: First 2 hours €1 per hour, €2 per hour thereafter

The National Botanic Gardens are located 3 kms north of Dublin City Centre, 10 minutes by bus from O'Connell Street (Nos. 4, 9 and 83)