Laurie King explores how Eigg inspires her to create art using natural materials and invites you to join her for one of her upcoming creative retreats on the island.
Eigg is one of those magical places that can inspire you to create beauty. That’s what I’ve found. Since moving to the island, I have been exploring what I can create from natural resources here – making colour from natural pigments and prints from plants. I look around me and I see ever-changing colour and pattern that I wish to capture.
Having studied bushcraft, as part of my wilderness therapeutic practice qualification, and for my PhD in foraging, I look to the landscape with a curiosity about how the landscape support us. I ask, how can I live in a way which is more in harmony with nature?
To share this joy and curiosity with others, I have set up a programme of creative retreats on Eigg for 2025 in collaboration with other artists and craftspeople.
In May, resident willow basket makers, Catherine Davies and Pascal Carr, will teach us how to create a gathering basket from the organic willow grown on their croft. We will use our new baskets to harvest natural materials on the island to make a series of cards using printmaking techniques.
In September, we will be joined by Jemma Gunning, a printmaker and Mountain Leader from Bristol, who will guide us in drawing and printmaking, gathering materials in the natural landscape, and sketching as we explore the islands incredible landmarks.
These retreats include four nights of accommodation in the Glebe Barn, delicious meals cooked by a local chef and three full days of tuition and guided walks.
If you are interested in joining us visit www.laurieking.org/retreats to find out more.