The Lambeth Country Show, an urban take on a country fair held annually in London’s Brockwell Park, featured a quirky vegetable sculpture contest that attracted national attention for its creativity and humor. The two-day event showcased a variety of attractions, including sheep-shearing, livestock competitions, food, and music. Among the standout entries in the vegetable sculpture contest were a “Cornclave” featuring cardinals made of maize, Irish rap trio Kneecap in potato form, “Cauli Parton” in a movie-inspired tableau titled “9 to Chive,” a vegetable “Mo Salad” likeness of Liverpool, and animated icons Wallace and Gromit made from butternut squash.
Some sculptures also referenced local politics, such as “Mark Rylunch,” a representation of “Wolf Hall” actor Mark Rylance, who is part of a group opposing large events in Brockwell Park. The apple-carved head and satirical signs branding him a NIMBY (not in my backyard) campaigner added a touch of satire to the display.
Quirky veggie sculptures entertain visitors
Country Fair regular Maddy Luxon expressed her excitement about the vegetable sculptures, saying, “It’s just so unique and just so witty, and we love the political ones.” Her companion, Marek Szandrowski, added, “And the puns. The vegetable puns, definitely.”
The contest brings together amateur and professional sculptors who transform ordinary vegetables into extraordinary art, showcasing their creativity, humor, and technical skills. Visitors to the show were invited to vote for their favorite sculptures, with awards given in several categories, including “Funniest Sculpture,” “Most Artistic,” and “Best Use of Vegetables.”
Event coordinator Sarah Green commented on the success of this year’s entries, stating, “The entries this year have surpassed all expectations.
It’s wonderful to see such enthusiasm and creativity. The vegetable sculpture contest is a highlight for many and it truly showcases the artistic talent within the community.”
As the contest continues to grow in popularity, organizers are already planning for next year’s event, hoping to attract even more participants and spectators. The vegetable sculpture contest at the Lambeth Country Show serves as a delightful reminder that art can come from the most unexpected places, and that sometimes, all it takes to create something magical is a dash of creativity and a handful of veggies.
