A Creative Exploration of the Plants, Herbs and Flowers of Kilgraney House and Herb Gardens
Join artist and designer Martin Marley for a hands-on creative workshop inspired by the plants, herbs, flowers and natural surroundings of Kilgraney House and Herb Gardens.
Working with botanical materials gathered from and inspired by the gardens, participants will explore how plants can become sources of colour, pattern, texture and image. Through a series of hands-on activities, participants will experiment with botanical inks, create plant prints and make striking images using leaves, flowers and sunlight, discovering the creative possibilities hidden within the natural world.
Drawing inspiration from Kilgraney’s herb gardens, woodland walks and diverse plant collections, this workshop invites participants to look more closely at the forms, colours and structures of plants while exploring traditional and contemporary botanical art processes.
Suitable for gardeners, artists, makers, and anyone with an interest in nature and creativity. Unsuitable for participants under 16 years old.
Participants will leave with a collection of botanical studies and prints, as well as inspiration for further exploration.
All materials provided. No previous experience necessary.
Directions: Situated just off the R705 Bagenalstown – Borris Road, the herb gardens are 6km from Bagenalstown.
About Martin Marley
Martin Marley is a designer, sculptor and maker whose work is deeply inspired by the natural world and the creative possibilities of working with materials by hand. From an early age, Martin was drawn to painting, drawing and the art of making. He went on to study at Art College in Belfast, where he specialised in 3D design and furniture design. Learning to design and physically build his creations gave him a strong understanding of materials, form and craftsmanship that continues to influence his work today.
During a successful career as a designer, Martin spent many years working in the Far East, creating handmade products and collaborating with skilled craftspeople. This experience developed his appreciation of natural materials and traditional making techniques, while encouraging him to explore his own artistic practice.
Today, Martin is best known for his expressive ceramic sculptures. Working primarily in clay, he creates striking figurative pieces that explore human emotion, identity and character. His work has been shaped by an artist residency in Vallauris, southern France, and is inspired by the diversity and individuality found in the human face.
Alongside his sculpture practice, Martin enjoys sharing creative processes with others through workshops that encourage observation, experimentation and a closer connection with nature. At the Carlow Garden Festival, Martin will lead the Botanical Impressions workshop, where participants will create beautiful botanical artworks inspired by plants and natural forms.
Martin lives and works at Kilgraney House, County Carlow, where creativity, craftsmanship and a love of nature continue to inspire his work.
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