Barbara Hepworths’ Studio and Sculpture Garden in St Ives, Cornwall is a beautiful hidden treasure of a find. Now owned by Tate, the organisation have conserved the pace, making it feel as though you are stepping into the world of a real, live working artist. The garden, even in winter shows the promise of full bloom in the warmer months, plants and water features combining the elements of the earth into a truly tranquil setting. The garden also inhabits a lovely elderly grey cat who I met stretched out, sleeping near a heater by the garden door.

As you walk through the peaceful garden, you can imagine how only the sound of the sea, wind and water features could do wonders for the busy mind of an artist. A path, leading around the garden features an array of Hepworths’ sculptures among foliage and plants with geometric forms and shapes.

The gallery, with high white walls and cold, cornish light feels similar to that the interiors of Kettles Yard in Cambridge. It reminds me of its use of space to present artworks and ornaments. Hepworths’ sculptures and drawings, including Seated Woman with Clasped Hands, stand out beautifully against the rooms’ simplicity.

My favourite room in the small museum was a conservatory higher above the studio that you come to after following a path around the garden. It harbours sculptures, and an array of potted plants line the shelves. I can imagine there only being endless amounts of inspiration in living somewhere as beautiful as St Ives. I was very blessed with a sunny, clear blue (if slightly chilly!) day to visit.

I find artists studios fascinating, as I think you can tell a great deal about the artists from the environment they choose to surround themselves in when working. It appears Hepworth appreciated the simplicity and natural elements in her workspace, and this reflects in her sculptures. The saying ‘less is more’, applies in her workspace, allowing the artists to rely on the natural landscapes and elements to gain inspiration.

Having been the museum and looking at the studios, I can imagine no better place for her to have worked. Now, as a preserved space for new artists to peek into, to gain a glimpse into the life of a female sculptor, it’s become one of my favourite museums.