Art Workshops for Nature Lovers: Introduction to Natural Inks

Discover creativity inspired by the beauty of our natural world at these relaxing art workshops hosted by artist, lucie smith. 

Whether you are completely new to art, an avid lover of nature, or simply looking for a peaceful and creative outlet, these workshops could be for you! Each workshop is designed in tune with the seasons, includes time outdoors exploring the beautiful surrounding gardens of Mayfield Park (weather dependent), and a creative activity with all materials included.

Enjoy tutored guidance in a calm, friendly setting while connecting with like-minded people and taking time to slow down and create.

Workshops in the Autumn/Winter series:

• Autumnal pressed flower frames (£38) - postponed to Spring 2027
• Introduction to natural inks (£30)
• Christmas wreaths (£40)

Friday 13th November: Introduction to Natural Inks - what to expect:

• Start with an introduction and mindful inspiration walk around Mayfield Park (weather permitting).
• Capture the colours, plants and botanicals that inspire you with your phone or camera.
• Discover the history and process of natural ink-making, with an oak gall ink demonstration.
• Learn how to process plants, fruit & veg to turn them into natural colours.
• Experiment with a range of handmade inks and explore how colours change by adding other ingredients.
• Create your own botanical-inspired painting using my handmade inks.
• Take home a handy guide to making your own inks at home.
• Choose your favourite ink to take home in a glass vial to continue experimenting!

About lucie

lucie is a conceptual artist, educator and researcher based in Southampton. Through art she explores innate connections between the human condition and the landscape. She believes deeply in the healing power of nature, sharing stories and folk knowledge.

lucie is currently studying a Masters in Contemporary Art and Archaeology and has a BA (Hons) Degree in Fine Art.

lucie works with communities, organisations and individuals around Hampshire and regularly exhibits locally and further afield.

See lucie’s work and read more about her practice and experience here: luciesmithart.com.

Contact and connect with lucie - Instagram: @luciesmithart / @art.ecology.heritage | Facebook: @luciesmithart / @art.ecology.heritage

Feel free to email lucie with any questions or queries: luciesmithart@gmail.com

About Mayfield Garden Centre

Mayfield Garden Centre is part of the Solent Mind Charity. They are a Garden Centre and Horticultural Wellbeing service that supports people in the local community with their mental health.

There is a lovely cafe on site offering drinks, cakes, lunches and afternoon tea.

All profits made from plant sales go back in their Wellbeing programmes, which includes gardening for dementia, a men's shed project and support for young people aged 16-25 with mental health needs.

Find out more about them here.

Travel and accessibility information

Public transport:

Mayfield Garden Centre is located just a couple of minutes walk away from Wrights Hill bus stop and the Bluestar services 7 and 15 stop here. Sholing Train station is also around 10 minutes walk away.

Parking:

If you are driving, there are some parking spaces right outside the gates, including one disabled space. There is also free parking available down by the bowling club and in the overflow area next to it by the trees, as well as Mayfield Park Car Park located slightly further down Weston Lane. You can also park on the road along Weston Lane where available.

Accessibility:

Mayfield Garden Centre is fully accessible with step-free access. The workshop table is situated close to the cafe and toilets.