Stanley Herbert Picker (b. 1913 - d. 1982) was an enthusiastic and passionate patron of the arts who formed a very individual collection of twentieth-century sculptures and paintings. 

The house which was completed in 1968, was designed by Kenneth Wood is an outstanding time capsule of the 1960s, set in a quiet cul-de-sac on Kingston Hill on steeply sloping ground which both inspired and challenged Wood when planning the modern split-level design of the house with Stanley. 

The open plan interior was designed to display Stanley’s beloved art collection, while its spaciousness allowed for social gatherings with friends, family and business acquaintances. Stanley believed in living and working amongst his art collection and so paintings and sculptures are sited all over the house and in the purpose built gallery as well as in the garden where they contribute to the atmosphere of this very special place.

Stanley often bought several works from artists when he particularly admired their work, encouraging them to experiment and develop their practice where possible. He derived pleasure not only in adding to his own very personal collection, but also from the support he gave aspiring artists so the collection of paintings and sculpture is wide-ranging.

In 1976 Stanley again worked with Kenneth Wood to build the Gallery in his garden to house the greater part of his collection.  He purchased works of art purely for the aesthetic appeal they held for him personally and not as investments.

Stanley Picker died in 1982 and left his house, gallery and his art collection to the Stanley Picker Trust so that those interested in the arts may continue to enjoy the collection as much as he did.  A lasting tribute to a truly remarkable man.