'Nature as an artist'- Winter foraging

As the cloaks of mist envelope the drumlins around us, the most spectacular displays of nature can be seen in the most dramatic conditions; from feathery whispers of Jack Frosts artwork on my car windshield, to phosphorescent sunsets with billowing swells of amber- tinted clouds. It makes for plenty of magical moments, and enhances the yearning to get outside and forage.

During this time of year I like to bulk up my supply of moss and lichens, which are usually found strewn along the farm laneways or in the fields. The damp conditions mean they’re thriving, and in good form for harvesting. I gathered some ivy, hawthorn branches and some holly too to make some Christmas garlands and wreaths, gloves were certainly needed for that exercise. Hawthorn has rich symbolism in Ireland; often known as the ‘fairy tree’, it was guarded by the little folk, who would allow you to harvest some of its branches if you were a new bride (lucky for me that I am!), as cutting it is often seen as bad luck. The ruby red berries are a treat for birds, and they like to nest within its weblike tangle of branches, so I left them on the tree and just pruned one or two of its spindly branches.

I was also treated to a surprise find; an empty birds nest I found beneath a hawthorn tree. It was as if they left it especially for me to find; beautifully perfect, skilfully constructed from foraged finds, and with a single feather remaining as a reminder of the former occupant. I’ve started to dry it out, and have a project in mind for such a wonderful piece of artistry from our feathery friends.