11th, 18th & 25th October : I was joined by artist Cassie McGuire who guided participants in making bug houses and bee hotels. These small habitats were created for the Common Ground site and will be the first elements to be installed in what will become our community micro-farm.

Over three sessions we explored different materials and methods of making these micro environments. We hope that they will become home to beneficial creatures and provide sanctuary for solitary bees over winter.

As we complete our bug houses in the final session, sound Artist Nell Catchpole joined us to explore field recording techniques. Nell introduced the equipment and invite participants to have a go at capturing some of the sounds of Common Ground. 

8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th November : I will be joined by artist Eve Cromwell to explore Bird Houses.

Eve has reimagined what a bird house could be as part of her own creative practice and will be sharing her work with us to help us to consider how we might want to create our own avian residences!

Over the 4 sessions Eve will guide us through each step from designing to building bird houses utilising reclaimed materials. She will encourage an imaginative approach while ensuring practicalities for potential nesters.

Eve will be introducing a range of basic carpentry skills and some manual dexterity will be required from participants.

We will also have a range of paper based activities including model making and the creation of paper birds with Amin Gheisari.

Nell Catchpole will also visit again for more sound recording and audio experimentation.

6th December : Artist Alia Gargum will be introducing her practice and revealing details of the sculptural work she is producing for the Common Ground site as part of the FORGED programme. Alia will be inviting everyone to participate in thinking through the design of the Common Ground micro-farm in relation to the sculpture, which will form a poignant centrepoint for the space. Activities will include discussion, consultation and creative design work. Younger attendees will also be encouraged to create their own ideas for a sculpture using modelling clay.

13th December : For our final session before the winter break, we invite you to join us for festive wreath making and light refreshments. We will be using a range of foliage and natural elements to create the wreaths which you can take home and enjoy. Wreath making requires good manual dexterity and is not suitable for younger children to attempt alone. Children definitely can help their grownup and there will also be other readily accessible activities for younger ones to enjoy.