During this project I had the pleasure of facilitating a series of engaging workshops called “Conversations with Clay,” for Nature Vibezzz, a registered charity providing forest school, environmental education and practical nature conservation sessions, events and community projects, encouraging and inspiring individuals of any age through positive outdoor experiences promoting the holistic development and fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.
We were nestled in the woodlands of Stretham Common, South London. The workshop goal was simple: to encourage mindfulness and creativity in a natural setting to support the development of the relationship between the participants and the natural world.
Among the trees and sounds of nature, our session began with some intuitive movement and reflection of the self and the space. The participants were eager to explore, quickly immersing themselves in the hands-on experience of exploring and creating in clay. Guiding them through the process, I encouraged them to embrace the moment and let their imaginations be free.
What unfolded was a delightful blend of exploration and expression. With each squish of the clay and each shape formed, the participants discovered a newfound sense of connection to the clay and the environment around them.
But perhaps the most rewarding aspect was witnessing the concentration and focus of children who ordinarily didn’t concentrate or focus, the bonds that formed among the group as they shared stories and laughed together and the silence as conversation took place within. It was evident that the workshop had fostered a sense of camaraderie and mutual understanding.
Not only had the participants learn about ways of creating in clay, but they had also experienced the joy of connecting with themselves, with nature and each other in a meaningful way.
