Inspirations. The National Botanic Gardens, Dublin

It's been a while since I've posted about any inspiring rambles or hiking trails around Dublin. That would be because I haven't been on one in months! I've had the misfortune to suffer a bad case of Plantar Fasciitis that has hobbled me for at least the winter, but I'm working on getting back on my feet, so to speak, by mid Spring.

However, I am not letting it coop me up entirely and still manage to get out in the fresh air even though I can't walk very far. I need to get close to nature to breathe and generate some creativity.

A couple of weeks ago I met up with Mo of Huggleknits and Heli of Heli Creations for one of our 'inspirational' days out. We took the number 9 bus from O'Connell Street, northwards to one of my favourite places in the city, the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland

Tap by Alan Corrigan & Finbar O'Neill

We thought it would help us tap into new creative energies (sorry, couldn't resist that pun if you paid me). The tap was part of the exhibition 'Sculpture in Context' held in the gardens in October. 

a glass house at the Botanic Gardens

 It was a stunning October day, perfect for taking photos...if only I were any good at taking them! 

 Though the gardens were still very green, they were also awash with seasonal golds, coppers, rusts and reds.

Inspired by the warm tones, the next day I was lured away from silver and instead, made this rich, autumnal brown sea glass and copper wire pendant, 'Sunset in Dublin.'  ...

Cork Red Marble pendant

...and this warm, Cork Red marble pendant, Love & Truth. I've been working on various other pieces and ideas inspired by our visit. In the meantime,  here are few more photos from the day:

spooky Halloween tree?

The wild Irish garden section looked like an impressionist painting. 

 

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