We are surrounded by nature yet, rarely do we pause to encounter and experience it.

In Stoke Newington, we are lucky to have a unique site where nature flourishes and the changing seasons can be observed. Abney Park Cemetery is a nature reserve and it is the ideal location to explore the ways in which nature can support a mindful engagement with creativity.

This workshop begins with an introduction to the concept of mindfully engaging with nature and then applying that engagement to creative expression using mark making, or drawing. Local artist Christina Lovey will lead the workshop, drawing on her personal experiences of drawing in the Park and her research into nature, connectivity and the value of creative expression.

Alan Watts in Watercourse Way tells the story of a famous painter in ancient China, who was asked about his process and how he was able to produce such masterpieces. His reply was that he did not make numerous sketches, as would be expected, but that he sat with the tree he was intending to paint until he knew the tree and had embodied it – only then did he take out his paintbrush and paint. Using this principle, we will sit within the Park and then make marks of trees, or other natural things that we are drawn to, on paper, using charcoal and pencil. Materials will be provided, but please feel free to bring your own.

Participants will be talked through a breathing technique that helps to focus and concentrate attention, and supported as they work. To finish, everyone will be invited to share their experiences of mindful mark making and to reflect on the process. It is hoped that we will feel both enriched and satisfied with our creative efforts, and our deep engagement with nature.

In the event of adverse weather: if it’s drizzly, we’ll go ahead, but if it's torrential, we’ll reschedule.

There are no toilets available on site at the moment due to the restoration work.