Last year is now a blur of amazing memories and you may have noticed we were so busy we have not had a chance to post about our adventures. Hopefully we can catch up on some of the news from 2017 in the next few instalments.

First on our minds was our time spent working with Patrick Dougherty. If you aren't familiar with this incredible man you MUST take a look at his web site or google him. Be prepared to be AMAZED! 

In June 2017 we volunteered to work on a project called 'Monumental Dougherty' at the Montreal Botanical Gardens - Jardin Botanique. This event was created, designed and built by land art sculptor Patrick Dougherty, an artist from North Carolina who builds massive, whimsical, sculptures all over the world using indigenous materials, his 'stick works'.

It was the chance of a lifetime for us and an experience we will never forget. Three long, exhilarating days...in the rain, cold, sun and heat, on ladders and on our knees, we worked side by side with Mr. Dougherty and his team. This incredible artist is a kind, calm, patient and humble man who's lifetime of work consists of over 275 unique, animated, imaginary, extrordinary structures made entirely, from top to bottom, with sticks. 

Monumental Dougherty consists of three installations. The one we worked on was loosely designed on the shape of a celtic knot, with interlocking 'rooms' joined by a maze of woven willow walls and arches, all swirling and whirling as if it was about to lift off from the ground and spin up into the clouds.  

Mr. Dougherty and his crew constructed two other structures while they were on the site in Montreal. The first was built as an interactive framework for visitors to work on over the summer using willow rods to fill in the walls. The third, which was built after we left, was an incredible series of buildings, a sort of twisted, domed village, with one monolithic, multi-domed, willow worshiping cathedral in it's centre. 

This three day experience was a huge '10 out of 10' for Madame Twig I & II! These structures will deteriorate over time, lasting 2 - 3 years in our climate, so if you have the chance don't miss the opportunity to visit them, they are truly remarkable!