Posted on October 20, 2017
The Wind of Change events took place across the weekend of 14–15 October. In Mike Abbott's words: "In my 32 years as a professional green woodworker, I don't think I have ever taken part in a more loving and blissful event, surrounded by the most friendly, positive and creative bunch of people in the most beautiful surroundings imaginable. I shall especially remember the kitchen team who invariably had one of my favourite Pearl Jam songs playing whenever I stuck my head through the door!"
For those who are not familiar with the cosy world of green wood, Mike has quite a following in the UK and abroad, and his book on how to make green wood chairs is in its 9th edition. He masterfully organised a weekend of panel discussions and demonstrations (chair, spoon, bowl and clog making), as well as invited Jackie Morris to talk about her book Lost Words, co-written with Robert Macfarlane, and Archie Miles to talk about his book on ancient trees (some of which are no bigger than a strawberry plant!).
Photo: Brilliant sign painted by our Swedish WWOOFer Sana.
Photo: Lewis Goldwater whittling away. Lewis works at The Cart Shed occasionally.
Photo: Mike Abbott demonstrating an awesome apple peeler/slicer.
Photo: Panel discussion on why manage woods, how to manage woods, how to get people out in woods, how to encourage our children to go to the woods.
Photo: The illustrious panel: writer and journalist Rob Penn, green wood chair maker Mike Abbot, green wood maker Toby Allen, Cart Shed managing director Katie Eastaugh The Woodland Trust representative (in charge of the Tree Charter) Matt Larsen-Daw, artist and tree surgeon Glenn Morris, who chaired the panel.
Photo: Evening moment of relaxation for the catering team, and ceramicist Julia Hilton.
Photo: The morning after.
Photo: Jackie Morris has everyone spellbound as she twists and turns words and images like a magician. She read from Lost Words co-written with Robert Macfarlane, and Mrs Noah's Pockets. Tamsin Abbott on the right.
Photo: The green wood guru, Mike Abbott, basking in the Herefordshire morning sun.
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