More Than Just Flowers: Creativity, Community, and Conversation

Yesterday we kicked off our flower pressing workshop with the wonderful environmental artist Helen Brook. I was so impressed by the enthusiasm and creativity in the room as everyone set about crafting our own flower presses from recycled/reused materials, including old books from Selby Library and carboard packaging from Selby Abbey.

But beyond the construction, what really stood out to me was the way participants approached the flower pressing itself. As they carefully selected their blooms – a mix of their own foraged finds, locally sourced flowers, and even some beautiful remnants from Selby Abbey – the arrangements they created within the presses were often miniature masterpieces in their own right.

The care taken in laying out each petal and leaf, the thoughtful composition of colours and shapes… it was clear that for many, this was more than just a practical step. It was an act of appreciation and a beautiful prelude to the artwork that will follow. Some of those initial floral arrangements, even before pressing, looked like delicate paintings waiting to be preserved!

It was a powerful reminder of how creative activities can bring people together, creating a sense of community and shared purpose. Seeing local residents making connections with others in their community, all while engaging with nature and art, was truly inspiring.

It was a joy to witness this connection with nature and the innate artistic eye that everyone brought to the process. Now, the anticipation is building for our second session on Tuesday, 22nd April, when we'll transform these carefully pressed flowers into unique pieces of art. I have a feeling we're going to see some truly stunning creations.

This experience is part of Helen Brook’s Environmental Artist Residency at Selby Abbey, through Now Then!, the exciting new arts programme for Selby, Sherburn, and Tadcaster from North Yorkshire Council and the Arts Council. Yesterday was a beautiful reminder of the simple joys of creativity and our connection to the natural world. It was a wonderful way to have gentle conversations about nature, Our Zero Selby and how we can work together to protect the environment, boost biodiversity and reduce our carbon footprint. I can't wait for the next session!