Ethics
As an interested gardener having studied permaculture, I believe the guiding principles of ‘Earth Care, People Care and Fair Share’ are very applicable to all areas of life. I have chosen to select a few out of the 12 guiding principles of permaculture and explain how these are relevant to my creative experience.
With thanks to my friend and permaculture teacher Lusi Alderslowe
Observe and Interact - take the time to observe and understand the situation, community or process you are aiming to work with. It’s important to be mindful of how your interaction and impact will be received in the context you are working in.
The problem is the solution - Some problems feel unmovable. This theory asks you to either use the problems as clues to the solutions, or perhaps flip the problem into a positive. What happens if you reverse your understanding of that problem and harbour it to your benefit?
Use edges and value the marginal - in human systems as well as nature systems, it is on the margins of spaces or society that the most diverse ecosystems take place. The cross section from woodland to field, or where cities outskirts overlap. This is where things meet creating an abundance of diversity. This permaculture principle celebrating these ‘fringes’ or margins is something I’m interested in. What are we overlooking and what lessons come from these places?
The Vegetable Growers, curated art exhibition from a functioning polytunnel
“Emily’s work is both considered and playful - a rare combination - that she brings care and commitment of process to” - Kat Wheeler, Creative director @ WWDN network / The Stove Network