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.

You can either book workshops singularly or save with a block booking of all four workshops (£130). Spaces for all workshops are limited to eight and advance booking is essential.

Workshops in the Autumn/Winter series:

Autumnal pressed flower frames (£38) - postponed to Spring 2027

Introduction to natural inks (£30) - Friday 13th November 11am-1:15pm

Christmas wreaths (£40) - Friday 4th & Saturday 5th December 11am-1:30pm

Friday 4th and Saturday 5th December: Christmas Wreaths - what to expect:

Please bring some gardening gloves and secateurs to use during the workshop if you have them. A few pairs plus scissors will be provided for those that can't bring any.

We'll meet at the garden centre and begin with an introduction.

We'll head out to the surrounding gardens in Mayfield Park for a mindful walk and to gather inspiration (weather dependent). Bring a camera or phone with a camera to take photos of the colours, plants and botanicals of the season that inspire you.

During our walk, or in the garden centre following our introduction depending on the weather, lucie will share the history and origins of wreath making, as well as the folklore surrounding some of the plants we'll be using to create your wreaths.

You'll be provided with a natural wreath base and a range of organic materials of the season to create your woven wreaths. We'll explore how to layer, weave and use string to attach your foliage to the wreath base.

You'll leave with a beautiful wreath ready to hang on your door at home and the knowledge of how to create your own at home using foraged materials.

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 (http://luciesmithart.com/).

Contact and connect with lucie - Instagram: @luciesmithart (https://www.instagram.com/luciesmithart/) / @art.ecology.heritage (https://www.instagram.com/art.ecology.heritage/) | Facebook: @luciesmithart (https://www.facebook.com/luciesmithart/)/ @art.ecology.heritage (https://www.facebook.com/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 (https://mayfieldgardencentre.org.uk/visit-our-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. (https://mayfieldgardencentre.org.uk/)

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.

Description supplied by the event organiser.