When we were given the title ‘Material Dialogues’ for our next exhibition my thoughts went straight to the Oak trees I have in my garden. I had been working with fallen branches and oak galls to create dyes and inks and printing with the oak leaves. But there was also another link, being quarter Scottish I had occasionally brought the Celtic Dara knot into my work, this Celtic symbol represents the interweaving root system of the oak tree.
So my journey began.
The Oak tree has always been held with high respect throughout ancient cultures, believing it held knowledge and wisdom. The Celtic Dara knot symbolises the inner strength, resilience, wisdom and endurance that the oak root system has. The quiet strength of the oak tree to still produce its leaves and acorns while it faces the daily environmental challenges can reflect our own quiet strength needed to grow and develop while we face our own daily challenges. It made me consider what I root myself in to have the strength and endurance to face my challenges and grow. For me that is my faith in God.
The body of work that I have created for our next exhibition reflects the mighty Oak Tree, the rustic water shaped vessels created with willow and birch with lights added, highlights the oak trees need for water and light to grow and produce roots, leaves and acorns. The Dara knot has been brought into the pieces to reflect the inner strength and endurance needed by the oak trees.
The wall pieces and books show my journey of exploring this subject, using the natural oak dyes, ink and leaf shapes from my beautiful oak trees.
Come along to our exhibition starting Wednesday 23rd September till Sunday 4th October at St Margarets Art Centre in Norwich. Where you can explore our ‘material dialogue’.
It will be good to hear your comments!