Mindfully Meandering
Belsay gardens prompt us to reflect on the ever-changing seasons of nature and what might lie beyond. “The Winter Garden is where the shapes and textures of plants come to the fore. In the summer there’s a mass of flowers that create a riot of colour – but during the winter when this is all stripped back Belsay’s winter finery, and the underlying backbone of the 30-acre landscape, is revealed.” Head Gardener Sarah Jo Harrigan.
Belsay gardens are soaked and steeped in the passages of time. Landscape Photography begins with a world full of information and throughout your journey through the grounds, you will be encouraged to find different ways of seeing, a new way to experience your surroundings. Be spontaneous and use your natural instinct, follow whatever catches your eye.
Project Outcome
In the "Mindfully Meandering" project, students explored the beauty and mystery of Belsay Hall’s gardens through Macro Photography. Inspired by Sir Charles Monck’s transformation of Belsay Hall’s landscape and its exotic plants, students captured intricate, abstract details of the gardens. They focused on observing nature's smallest wonders, such as hidden features in the quarry garden or plants nestled in The Grotto's walls, particularly during the changing seasons. The project emphasised mindfulness and a deep connection with the environment. Students created a series of digital macro photographs, curated into a stop-frame animation that reflected the transformation and awakening of nature.
