Exploring Es Devlin’s Library of the Four Winds at Castle Howard in York
Castle Howard, the renowned Baroque stately home near York recognized globally for its appearances on screen, has launched a major new artistic installation. Acclaimed artist and designer Es Devlin has unveiled Library of the Four Winds within the historic Temple of the Four Winds, marking a creative highlight for visitors exploring the estate this season.
Experiencing the Temple of the Four Winds Installation
The new public sculpture transforms the pavilion into an immersive, luminous environment. At the center of the structure stands a rotating, double-height revolving bookshelf reflecting off a mirrored base, filled with hundreds of volumes. Surrounding the exterior are four concentric tables and benches where visitors are encouraged to pause, read, and converse.
The installation draws inspiration from the pavilion’s historic use as a space for reading and refreshment. Alongside the rotating sculpture, a soundscape featuring the artist reading selected literary passages plays across the site, aligning with the National Year of Reading.
Summer Exhibitions and Visitor Activities
The new artwork is part of a broader seasonal program commemorating the tricentenary of Sir John Vanbrugh, the architect behind the historic Yorkshire estate. Visitors can also explore Staging the Baroque: Vanbrugh at Castle Howard, an exhibition curated by Roz Barr that chronicles the architectural partnership between Vanbrugh and the 3rd Earl of Carlisle.
Families and younger visitors can engage with Playshapes: Castle Constructors, an interactive play space featuring architectural blocks designed by local artist Pippa Hale. Additionally, the estate is hosting weekly outdoor drawing workshops every Saturday throughout the summer, alongside special evening openings on selected dates.
The installation and related events run through 27 September and are included with standard admission. Further details on the historic house and its grounds can be found on the official Castle Howard website.
Plan your cultural itinerary across the region by exploring upcoming exhibitions in York, browsing local museums and landmarks, or navigating the interactive city map on Musemap (musemap.art).
