‘Kirkstall Neighbours’ are workshops led by skilled artists, held before the Art Trail. They aim to give members of our community the opportunity to learn new skills and create artwork for the summer event.

Artist Annabelle Richmond-Wright led the Botanical Plaster Casts workshop and tells us more about it below.

“The idea for the botanical plaster casting workshop came from a desire to share my passion for the process of mould-making and casting with others, to create space for people to learn new skills, and to reconnect with the act of making.

Participants learned how to press natural forms into clay to create detailed impressions. We then cast these in plaster to produce beautiful botanical reliefs. I designed the workshop not only to teach technical skills, but also to promote making as a way to support wellbeing—a value central to my practice as a creative wellbeing workshop facilitator.

The session was a great success. Everyone involved thoroughly enjoyed the experience, from gathering and arranging their chosen plants to the tactile process of casting. It was wonderful to see people engage with the process and with each other.

Now, we’re eagerly anticipating the ‘big reveal’ as the final plaster reliefs will be exhibited during the Art Trail.”

The final pieces will be on display at Venue 23.

Highlights from the workshop

Funding

This project has been made possible by funding from the Inner West Community Committee, Leeds City Council.