Emile Brunel Studio and Sculpture Garden

The Emile Brunel Studio and Sculpture Garden is a roughly 1.3-acre property featuring seven concrete sculptures and three buildings along Route 28. The grounds slope gently toward Esopus Creek and combine artistic works with a historic photography studio.

French immigrant Emile Brunel created the garden between 1921 and 1941, following his success with 37 portrait studios and founding the New York Institute of Photography. The site developed from his vision of combining art and craftsmanship in this river location.

The sculptures depict figures and themes that reflect Brunel's fascination with Native American cultures he encountered during his travels through the American West.

The grounds are open for self-guided walks daily and offer straightforward access to the sculptures and buildings. Orientation information on site helps visitors navigate the various works and spaces.

Brunel crafted the sculptures using an unusual technique of filling wire mesh molds with rocks and concrete to create large-scale works that have endured for decades. This hands-on method was unconventional for its time and still characterizes the site today.

Location: Olive

GPS coordinates: 41.99972,-74.26389

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:41