The moment you enter the main gates of Asthall Manor, near Burford, passing the two gatepost finials created by sculptor Anthony Turner, you will be aware that you are entering an enchanting world where old and new not only complement each other, but provide a never-to-be-forgotten magical mix. Old rose varieties dancing in the sunlight highlight the glow of hand-carved marble sculptures, and twisted stone forms emphasise the beauty of this glorious garden and the 17th- century manor house against which it is set. The result is absolutely stunning. Asthall Manor is the home of Rosie Pearson, who commissioned Isabel and Julian Bannerman to design the gardens, which flow into the Windrush Valley landscape beyond to combine elements of formality with openness and freedom. Rosie organised the first On Form exhibition in the Manor garden in 2002 and is now opening her gardens to the public for On Form 2010, the fifth exhibition of what is now considered the largest stone sculpture exhibition in the country.

Anthony Turner’s work is still much in evidence, as it is each year. Look out for his giant pea pod (picured) carved out of Connemara marble, cut and polished to expose the beautiful translucent green hues that hide within. This superb, tactile piece changes with the weather and is perhaps best seen on a inclement day when moisture from the raindrops illuminates the hidden colours within. Other pieces, such as Paul Vanstone’s giant faces (pictured) that greet visitors entering the garden, respond to sunlight and the ever-changing shadows it casts on these works, focusing our attention on the way Paul has pulled life out of the massive stonesd.

The delicate alabaster and stone pieces carved by Oxfordshire sculptor Frederic Chevarin respond to the changes of light too. These delicate pieces (of which there are several on show) are all inspired by nature and like nature, every face and fold is different. These exquisite pieces, which stand in the garden and the ballroom, cry out to be touched, admired and enjoyed. Visitors will be delighted to discover that On Form’s unusual “Please DO Touch” policy will once again encourage visitors to touch the sculptures and experience the sensations evoked by stroking these pieces, many of which have been created from stone dating back to the Jurassic era.

Twenty eight world-class British sculptors are exhibiting this year from June 13 to July 11, Wednesdays to Sundays from 12pm to 6pm. There is an admission charge of £5 for adults and £2 for children, but those under 12 go free. For information: www.onformsculpture.co.uk Telephone 01993 824319