21/12/2025
Winter solstice, turning point of the year. Feels like a time for reflection, marking the moment of stillness between the ebb and flow, rhythm of the year. Welcoming the gradual returning of the light.
In the studio in recent days the tables have been filled with greenery, ribbons, oranges and spices for wreaths and pomanders. I have also been making new batches of Rose face cream and gardener’s salve (which smelt wonderful- like walking along a country lane in late summer heady with Meadowsweet) as well as weighing out tea blends.
One of the highlights in the studio this year has been the collaborative artwork created by the Plant Twisters creative group, the tree sculpture we created was displayed at Alnwick playhouse as part of the What a Wonderful World festival.
We have been out and about this Autumn showcasing our immune tonic at the Fungi Festival, Paxton House and Borders organic growers’ Apple day which were both lovely events to attend.
In the garden during a herb workshop I was asked the question ‘what do you mean when you say you are getting to know a plant?’ which got me thinking about the many ways I like to get to know a plant: meeting a living plant, growing it from root or seed, drawing, photographing, exploring potential uses: culinary, textiles, colour, medicinal; tasting, making infusions, balms, tinctures.
Workshop dates will be announced in the new year. If you would like to get hands on with herbs, woodcraft or studio crafts.
Wishing you peace, love and joy, happy solstice!
