Kathryn Jordan

Theme: Vulnerable

Now perhaps more than ever, we are aware of our vulnerability, physically and emotionally. We have recognised the need to collectively protect the vulnerable and spent more time than ever in the confines of our own homes, finding new ways to connect with each other and the world around us.

I have always found my connection to nature to be vital for my well being and am so thankful for the natural world around us.

On my daily dog walks, I have loved seeing the spring emerge, each day with a new offering. I have been so grateful for this and for my garden, particularly enjoying the birds that visit the feeders.

Many of us will have felt more aware of our own vulnerability during this time. I am also aware that nature has always been vulnerable to human activity and continues to be.

In this time of enforced inactivity for humans, the wildlife around us has had a chance to enjoy newly depopulated landscapes. An example of a positive outcome from this is the increase in nesting birds along the River Thames this year. Usually their nests are destroyed by boat traffic causing too much disturbance but this spring has been like no other they will have seen. We have all noticed how much quieter it is and so it is for the wildlife too. They are able to make their nests, lay their eggs and hatch their young in relative peace. I was also really inspired to hear that this spring, as part of the rewilding project on the Knepp Estate in West Sussex, wild stork chicks have hatched for the first time in 600 years!

For me, the image of the nest also reminds us of the importance of a safe home, as well as the ingenuity and wonder of natures architecture. Eggs can symbolise life, new beginnings, fertility and resurrection. Their presence also reminds us of the fragility of life and the need to take care of it. My hope is that perhaps having had this global ‘pause’ we will be able to initiate a new beginning in which we continue to value and take care of the vulnerable and also continue to take steps to protect the natural world and allow it to flourish.

Kathryn became part of the Same Sky team in 2017.

Initial design drawing

I’ve been experimenting with different ways to construct the nest for my lantern. Having collected some cut branches I found during a visit to Wilderness Wood.

Using mixture of lantern making willow, tissue & some found branch tops. Birds use a huge variety of things to construct their nests, so I decided to mimic their approach! The next step is to scale it up.

Birds using what they find in their environment to make a home for their young. Upsetting image to see but we need to be aware of the impact of even the smallest pieces of rubbish carelessly thrown away.

Enjoying working out in the garden, especially being able to hold the beginnings of my nest between my toes & see it up against the blue sky.

Weaving willow. I love the lines it creates with me. It’s such a wonderful material to work with.

Papering the nest.

Egg construction.

I really enjoyed making my birds nest lantern. Such a lovely project.

Finished illuminated sculpture.

She speaks a lot of truth about vulnerability and delivers it in a really engaging and funny way. Enjoy! It’s only 20 mins!