This project began in 2002 casting and printing objects found on our smallholding. We researched poetry, folklore and symbolism which emphasised the greater meaning and intrinsic importance of natural history especially its importance in the lives of humans. In 2023 I decided to start a year long nature journal making prints of the plants around my home and gathering research about them, I have been sharing them on social media and a few of the videos I have made have gone a little viral as has this one...last I looked it had over 4 million views on TikTok and nearly 6 million on Instagram! I am always shocked when this happen but I thought I should celebrate it this time.
I am often completely amazed by the gorgeousness of the monoprints I make…but this one was a complete surprise…
I thought it would be a real challenge but it was easy to print and the detail is incredible. It’s a great one to add to my print nature journal. What do you think?
I have a patch of marsh woundwort in the field (Stachys palustris), also commonly known as hedgenettle. Whilst it does not have widely recognised symbolic meaning, it could represent the concept of adaptability or strength in challenging environments due to its ability to thrive in marshy conditions.
The Stachys genus were sometimes believed to have medicinal properties and were used in traditional herbal remedies. For example, Stachys officinalis (betony) was regarded as a powerful herb and in some European traditions, it was believed that carrying a sprig of Marsh Woundwort could protect against evil spirits and witches. It was also thought to bring good luck and ensure a bountiful harvest if planted near the entrance of a home or field. It has also been known to repel snakes and so planting it around the house may deter them, probably due to its fairly pungent scent.
This will be a lovely addition to my print nature journal which will have to be bound in seasons I think.
If you would like to have a go at this wonderful process, this is a great activity for all ages there are some useful links on the website HERE which might be helpful.