On Wednesday 25^th June, we held our second Quantock Nature Calling session in the welcoming Thomas Poole Library in Nether Stowey. Artist Luan MacDonald returned and introduced the skills required to create beautiful artworks using punch needle embroidery, and to continue our overarching theme of migratory birds.

Guest blog post written by Ruby Walters (SAW summer intern from Exeter University)

We began the session by discussing the importance of symbolism, and how elements of the natural world can mean different things to different people. 

Luan inspired us by introducing the ‘Sankofa’, a mythical bird symbol from the Akan people of Ghana, in West Africa. The word ‘Sankofa’ can be translated as meaning ‘go back and get it’ and the importance of learning from the past to build a successful future. It is illustrated through the symbol of a bird with its head facing backward, while its feet face forward, cradling an egg in its beak. Considering the Sankofa in the context of migration was particularly poignant – as Luan said, “it highlights the importance of reclaiming our history”.

We began the creative activity by sketching individual bird designs onto colourful recycled fabrics stretched over embroidery hoops. Everyone in the group came up with their own compositions that reflected their creative style and their own interests and interpretations of bird symbolism. 

Luan then showed us how to thread the punch needles with brightly coloured wool and thread that had been sourced from local charity shops. From her demonstration, everyone began to stitch colour into their respective designs. The group gradually picked up the needle punching technique, which involved making very small stitches in the fabric to create a textural, vibrant design. Each piece began to come alive as the coloured threads were added, with each person’s personal creative style emerging.

Halfway through the day, the group took a very well-deserved break to walk and explore the local landscape with Jon. 

Everyone in the group was very focussed, and by the end of the day each person had produced beautiful, vibrant artworks that were full of joy and spirit. It was a lovely way to spend a sunny June day.

Photography: Jon Barrett