I managed to get a day out on Monday before the weather got too much this week. I’ve always wanted to go to Burning Man in Nevada, although it has got less appealing as I’ve got older! Luckily the spirit of Burning Man has visited the UK.

Burning Man is an annual event held in Nevada that creates a temporary art community which culminates in (surprisingly) the burning of a statue assembled by that community. It’s a statement against consumerism and championing self expression. Is it ironic that an exhibition of sculptures from the festival is being held at Chatsworth? Chatsworth House, does seem a bit at odds with the Burning Man ethos, however the exhibition is in the grounds that are free. You just pay for parking (a fiver a car, cheap really). So you can wander around all day for free. It’s so beautiful it feels like a holiday, even the jets scrambling overhead didn’t ruin the day! I’ve also got a soft spot for the old Duke of Devonshire who donated a ridiculous number of books to Derbyshire County Council and lets not forget (or delve into…) the Kennedy connection…

We took sketchbooks but it was a bit too hot to sit and sketch so here’s a collection of snaps instead.