Commission from the National Trust at Trelissick Gardens, Cornwall

Spirit of the Garden

9 May - 9 June 2013

Trelissick garden is situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty, a gently folding landscape containing oaks, beach, exotics and rare specimens, and leading down to the River Fal.  This assignment was to produce installations that were sympathetic to the surroundings and appropriate for National Trust visitors.

When researching the property, the list of dedicated gardeners reminded me of my own dedicated and gentle gardener Jack from years ago, who died of cancer.  My work is an hommage to gardeners, especially Jack.

Process

Old garden tools were chosen to become spirits of garden tools.  The tools had to be staked into the ground so had metal rods welded to them, before being covered in          hessian fabric dipped in Keramicast plaster.  

An old spade was covered in cling film to prevent the rust  from dis-colouring the plaster.

Wet hessian was cut to size over the spade after metal rods had been welded to it, to go into the ground.

The hessian was then dipped in plaster and was very heavy so needed two people to put in place.

Help from a first year student was much appreciated!

Extra layers of plaster were gradually added all over.

As the plaster is hardening drips form, which need to be removed.

Whilst wet the form was very heavy and difficult to balance at the right angle for the folds in material to fall at the required angle.

A lot of sanding was needed to re-find the folds in  the fabric.

The final piece awaiting installation.

The same treatment was given to a watering can

And also to a garden trowel.

This tool has been likened to the appearance of a coffin.

Final Installation

Artist Statement

 Spirit of the Garden

“The act of ‘gardening’, as well as the activities enjoyed in the garden, contributes to a sense of well-being.  Gardening is dependent not only on the input of the human being but also on the part played by nature.”

Cooper, David E. 2008.  A philosophy of Gardens.

In memory of my gentle, dedicated gardener, Jack.