Ephemeral works in nature's studio

It is said that the universe is ‘constantly expanding’ and that is how I feel about my journey in ikebana.

I am at a crossroad of developing my style: – I wish to continue my teaching, create exhibition works as well as investigating working ‘in the space’. What does that mean? I identify it as working with natural materials in the vicinity of the installation. Admiring works by artists such as Andy Goldsworthy, Nils Udo etc where they work in nature’s ‘workshop and gallery’ using what is available at hand.

Working purely in and with nature I have to draw on most if not all of my senses as well as my inventiveness to solve challenges that arise to complete the ‘work’. I enjoy this style of art is because it is ephemeral, fleeting and just for this moment.

I was fortunate to attend a workshop conducted by Shona Wilson, which reinforced my ideas and understanding of working purely in nature. I did several activities before my final work: – partially covering a rock with nasturtium leaves. Each leaf offered a challenge so I had to constantly work out how to make adhere the leaf to the rock. Thrilled with the end result I only wish I could visit it again in a day or so to see how it ‘weathered’ and changed form.

Exercise with dried leaves

Work developing

Work growing

Completed work