A wickerman workshop . . .

Some of my best inspiration comes whilst I walk in my favourite places

down deep in the ancient forest, listening to the trees whispering their stories.

On early morning walks up past dew kissed fields,

I  watch crows rise amongst branches scribbled across pink tinged skies, 

their calls breaking the still air of a brand new day.

Of course it is no wonder trees so oft find their way into my paintings.

and lately I have been working on designs for family trees

tying together three things I love ~ trees, stories, genealogy. 

I am endlessly fascinated by all that history, all those happenings and connections.

As I add twining branches, names and dates running back into the past

 I ponder the stories, the connections, the history there.

For stories are what we are made of and my family trees a way of keeping those stories alive

I am thrilled this year to have been invited to demonstrate my family trees and lead "family tree workshops" for children in the Lowland Links Tent" at the Wickerman Festival. It is part of this years Homecoming Scotland celebrations, which is all about encouraging folk to explore their Scottish roots, and discover more about their heritage.

It should be altogether much fun and I cannot wait to see what magical creation willow sculptor Trevor Leat has conjured up for this years festival. As you can see last year we had a magnificent horned beltie.

It is almost a shame to see the sculpture go up in flames as part of each years spectacular festival finale. Do come and find me and say hello if you are at the Wickerman Festival this year!