PyramidHill
Located just southwest of Hamilton, Ohio on a ridge overlooking the Great Miami River is Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and the Ancient Sculpture Museum. The grounds cover more than 250 acres of woodlands, gardens and lakes that are crisscrossed by walkways and roads that intertwine almost 60 pieces of sculpture, most of which could be considered contemporary art.
"Cincinnati Story" by George Sugarman
Among the grounds is also the Ancient Sculpture Museum that was designed after a Roman house with an open garden in the center.
The entire complex is the idea of Harry Wilks, a self described small-town lawyer, who has spent the last 20 years of his life assembling an massive collection of both contemporary and ancient outdoor sculpture. Wilks still lives in the park in his private residence that was originally intended to house the ancient sculpture works, but he enjoyed the distinctive architecture and location so much, that he decided to remain in the 7000 sq. foot underground home when it was completed in 1992. The distinctive glass pyramid is visible on the northwest corner of the property. The house has been featured in Architectural Digest and HGTV.
Although Wilks purchased most of the early pieces of sculpture, the foundation is now responsible for all acquisitions. Harry instead focuses on increasing his antiquity holdings
On weekends visitors are likely to find numerous weddings and receptions going on at the same time, yet those same visitors can still experience the thrill of seeing both large and small works of art emerge through the trees as they drive over the narrow roads. For those wanting an even slower, but motorized journey, can rent golf carts. There are also numerous hiking paths throughout the 250 acres.
Harry Wilks was born in Chicago and moved to Hamilton in his youth. After serving in the Pacific during World War II, he returned to Ohio and attended Miami University where he graduated in 1948. Two years later he got his law degree from the University of Cincinnati. His wealth can be attributed to wise management of his stock portfolio.
"Restoration" by Jim Agard
Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum
1763 Hamilton-Cleves Road, SR 128
Hamilton, Ohio 45013
Admission $8.00 adults / $1.50 children
