A Wild Escape: Exploring Through Weaving and Conversation

The loss of biodiversity is not solely linked to changes in land use, but rather stems from our increasing disconnect with the plants that surround us. In urban environments, wild plants are often seen as unwanted weeds and have lost their historical significance in terms of providing food and fibre. Unfortunately, this knowledge has gradually disappeared in our modernised world.

During my research and connection with a community garden, I discovered the healing qualities of several edible wild plants. Upon delving into the realm of foraging and botanical knowledge, it became apparent to me how estranged many of us are from the natural world around us. The fast-paced nature of our lives, and the predominantly urban settings we inhabit, have led us to rely on store-bought food. We rarely consider the bounty of edible and medicinal plants that surround us.

This project aims to engage people with the forgotten knowledge of edible wild plants, which hold significant value for both wildlife and us. Weaving in the open public parks on a backstrap loom gave me an opportunity to engage people in this conversation and share views. To give these plants a distinctive presence, I used their natural dyes in the weaving, thereby creating a unique identity for each plant.