In October’s Saturday Studios workshop we will be working with one of Scotland’s most threatening botanical invasive species: rhododendron ponticum. This plant threatens rainforests, ancient woodlands, and wild habitats by crowding out smaller plants and spreading a fungus-like pathogen.

Join Paul Cookson from Green Aspirations to learn more about rhododendron and other invasive plant species as he demonstrates how to chop and prepare rhododendron wood before heating it to create charcoal. Participants can then use the charcoal or turn it into ink and paint.

The day will be split into two sessions:

• From 10am – 12pm: making charcoal. This process will involve exploring our 50-acre site to identify the plant. Then, using sharp saws and knives, we will process the wood before creating the charcoal in a fire pit.
• From 1pm-3pm: charcoal drawings. Participants may also turn the charcoal into inks and paints. This will be an experimental session to discover the potential of homemade charcoal.

This workshop is free and open to children aged 8 and over. Children between 8 and 10 years of age should be accompanied by an adult. Feel free to bring a packed lunch and book to take part in both sessions.

If you have questions about workshop accessibility, please get in touch with Curator of Engagement Emma Henderson.

Saturday Studios is supported by Argyll & Bute: Supporting Communities Fund.