Friends Event: Richmond Park – Ways of Seeing, Trees in British Art History
Tim Craven, our speaker, with his painting “Little Norton, casein on canvas” at the Art Talk. Photograph: Eric Baldauf.
The Art Talk last week, our first event at Duke Street Auditorium, was a great success with 200 people attending in person and online. The evening centred around a fascinating talk by artist Tim Craven, who took us on a journey through the history of trees in British art, from traditional landscape paintings to their symbolism in today’s fragile natural environment.
We also enjoyed a photo loop with 30 beautiful images of Richmond Park’s woods and trees, all by local photographers, and a display of paintings and drawings of trees. Those attending in person took the opportunity of talking with the artists, including Tim, and purchasing merchandise from the Friends’ mobile visitor centre while enjoying a drink. A recording of the event is here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3gRi7NNI6Q&feature=youtu.be
Jeshi on Richmond Park
Rapper and songwriter Jeshi recently swapped east London for Richmond Park. As part of a series on nature, he explored the benefit of nature and the sounds of Richmond Park. In doing so, he discovered how respite from the urban bustle can offer a sense of clarity and perspective on the city he calls home.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Abu_ecmGc_g
The solar powered paddle aerators of Upper Pen Ponds
Photograph: Nigel Jackman
Acquired when Upper Pen Pond was drained last year, a pair of solar powered paddle aerators have been put to use on Lower Pen Pond for the past few weeks. Seasonally, in hot weather and whenever there are concerns about oxygen levels, they can be floated out into the water wherever needed, on a raft on which they sit.