Sculptor Lendon Scantlebury is a man with a mission: to make art accessible to all. And, boy, does he do it in style.

Sculpture in the Vineyard, set in the beautiful Bothy Vineyard, some seven acres of land, provided a fantastic backdrop to some inspiring art pieces.

On arrival, laminated maps were handed out, showing the layout of the sculptures. Along with this, a comprehensive list of all artists, with title, and price of their work. Most of the artwork could be purchased.

Through the entrance was a small courtyard, housing refreshments and a gallery set up for smaller sculptures and mosaics. All had their own charm, but there was no linking theme. A huge, voluptuous woman made of wire dominated the entrance lawn, a life-sized chicken by the hedge, a tooth became a thing of beauty. Art took on many forms, and the seamless quality to the exhibition allowed a natural flow to the proceedings.

Wandering through the vineyard was a joy. Surprises popped up everywhere. Figures, so life-like you felt you could call out to, and they would turn. Feral dogs emerging from the bushes. A hippo, a yacht, a fish on a bike. And then the piece de resistance. A huge sculpture by an A-Level student from Cokethorp School, Witney.

Each year Lendon chooses to work with a young person to produce a piece of artwork. They decide on their subject, and are free to experiment. The only criteria they must fulfil is that they deliver to the deadline set for everyone. This year’s student started in February, working with Lendon once, maybe twice a week, more when his other commitments allowed, and he finished it at the start of May. The finished piece has no price on it. It has gone to an open auction.

Lendon is passionate about the youth having access to art and is doing his bit to promote it. He hopes exhibitions like his, which are free entry, will encourage interest. This is his second exhibition at Bothy Vineyard. In 2013 over five hundred people per day visited.

I’m sure 2015 will see a lot more. With 30 artists and 200 artworks, what’s not to like? Add to that a beautiful location, and something truly exceptional happens. Give it go, it’s free, take the kids, and you’ll have the perfect safe haven for a trip out.

Sculpture in the Vineyard is on from 23 May-7 June