Over the past 18 months, the partnership with Metroland Cultures, and in particular artist Sean Roy Parker, has flourished.

Want to see the process from start to finish? Look no further…

It began with community consultation. What did we want the art to look like? What elements of the garden, the community and Sufra did we want it to include?

 

Three proposals were put forward by local artists.

Designs range from artistic totem poles with elements of natural colour and storytelling, ornate lettering on the fencing welcoming the community inside to explore further, and a glasshouse ‘discovery centre’ erected using recycled and salvaged materials.

Votes were cast!

Chosen artist, Sean Roy Parker began his own community consultation, gathering feedback, materials and insight from St Raph’s residents and the edible garden community.

Items were sourced from all over – including old sash windows, doors and disused carpets.

3 community workshops were held to explore the garden: writing and poetry with Priya Jay, foraging for healing herbs with Rights For Weeds and carpentry workshops with community facilitators Jack Narbed and Hannah Lily Lanyon – so our community could get involved with the build.

The Glasshouse was born!

2 weeks of building, including carpentry lessons with 4 local young people, signed up to upskill and get stuck in during half term.

The Grand Opening. With music by The Goblin Band, and delicious vegan snacks, guests cheered as the ribbon was cut and the glasshouse was declared officially open for discovery!

We’re thankful to the St Raph’s community for all of your input and involvement, and Metroland Cultures for the opportunity.

Do come down and pay us a visit:

Garden opening times