The Expressions of Love centerpiece at Hunter Valley Gardens is a profound expression of love and admiration. Comprising 16 sculptures, the installation was commissioned by Bill Roche as a tribute to his wife, Imelda Roche, and their family. At its heart is a sculpture of Mrs. Roche, radiating warmth and pride, surrounded by life-sized sculptures of her grandchildren. Together, the collection celebrates the bonds of family and the enduring legacy of love.

To complement this homage, Mrs. Roche later commissioned a bust of Bill Roche, unveiling it as a surprise. Positioned at the entrance to the rose garden, the bust portrays him holding a pot plant, a symbol of his role as the founder and creative force behind the gardens. This thoughtful addition reinforces the unity and shared vision of the couple who brought the gardens to life.

The creation of Expressions of Love was a decade-long process, filled with both artistic precision and personal connection. Each grandchild was carefully measured, their poses thoughtfully designed to capture their individual personalities and their relationships with one another. The eldest grandchildren stand nearest to Mrs. Roche, while others are depicted in dynamic clusters or independent poses, reflecting their unique connections and independence. Playful modeling sessions ensured the youngest participants stayed engaged, infusing the sculptures with a sense of joy and authenticity.

The clay sculptures were then created in the artist’s studio, with the children and their families modeling for them. Once completed, each sculpture was cast in bronze, preserving every detail in this enduring medium.

By the time the sculptures were installed and unveiled, the children had grown into young adults. The artwork now serves as a cherished record of the family at a particular moment in time. This celebration of love, family, and legacy has become a significant attraction within Hunter Valley Gardens, drawing visitors from near and far to witness its beauty and meaning.

Expressions of Love is more than a sculptural centerpiece; it is a heartfelt tribute that captures the timeless power of love and the importance of family in a way that will resonate for generations to come.

This ambitious project serves as both a visual and emotional focal point within the gardens, encapsulating the timeless themes of love, family, and legacy. It stands as a tribute not only to the individuals depicted but also to the enduring power of sculpture to convey the deepest expressions of the human heart.