About

Join botanical artist Ella Yolande and Gemma Hindi from Help Nature Thrive, for a sensory exploration of lichens through colour, touch and scent.

Lichens are formed through a unique partnership between algae, fungi and/or cyanobacteria. How might these slow-growing symbiotic organisms inspire us to reconnect with nature in a more mindful way?

Using the macro lenses, you will examine the varied intricate structures of lichens whilst practising basic identification techniques. Taking inspiration from traditional and sustainable lichen dyes, artist Ella will guide us in a hands-on activity to create a small memento to take home, infused with lichen colour and scent.

In this session, you will venture out for a short Spring walk to attune your senses in the locality at Greenwich Park, and see if you can spot any lichens. Gemma will share insight into how lichens may take on multiple important roles supporting the wildlife and ecosystems of the Parks, in light of increased pressure due to a changing and challenging climate.

‘Lichen Lab: Art & Ecology’ will provide a starting point for your deep dive into these often overlooked but incredible organisms, reconnecting you to a hidden world within Greenwich Park.

About your Guides
Ella Yolande is a visual multi-media artist. She creates plant-infused therapeutic garments inspired by her research in colonial botanical histories, queer ecologies and the more-than-human worlds. Her current work explores how ecological sensitivities might be woven from living histories, using methods of speculative science and field working to think with the figure of the lichen.

Gemma Hindi is one of Help Nature Thrive's engagement officers at The Royal Parks. An experienced outdoor educator, she helps people reconnect with our heritage and ecology through encounters with wild plants and fungi.