The 'Pierluigi Gherardi' Sketches Museum was founded in 1984 in Pietrasanta, following initiatives promoted by Jette Muhlendorph, with the aim of documenting the artistic activity of sculptors who come here from all over the world to create their works in local artisan workshops. It is a unique institution of its kind and is the direct reflection of the activity that most characterizes the Apuan-Versilian area and in particular Pietrasanta: sculpture.

Over 1000 sculpture sketches by over 350 artists who have chosen the workshops of Pietrasanta and Versilia to create their works. A journey through the creations of contemporary sculpture from all over the world, a journey to discover the precious work of artisans.

The International Park of Contemporary Sculpture, an ideal open-air continuation of the Museum of Sketches, represents a distinctive symbol of Pietrasanta and its ancient and deep-rooted sculptural tradition.

With a large number of monumental works of contemporary sculpture arranged in public spaces, the park bears witness to the strong bond between Pietrasanta and the masters of sculpture who have worked here or regularly frequent local workshops.

This open-air museum extends through the streets, squares and gardens not only of the city centre, but also of the hamlets. The positioning of the sculptures greatly enhances the urban landscape, integrating with interventions aimed at creating an appropriate setting, giving Pietrasanta a unique connotation that underlines the union between the city and art.