Seasons Change is a project developed and delivered by artist Cash Aspeek in partnership with Friends of Brookmill Park, Deptford.
Working with two groups of students from the School of Supported Learning at Lewisham College, the project explored the changing seasons through creative activities inspired by Brookmill Park’s wildlife, trees, and landscapes.
Brookmill Park is home to a biodiverse pond, the tidal River Ravensbourne, and a rich variety of birdlife, including kingfishers, herons, and egrets. Each session began with a walk through the park, encouraging participants to observe and connect with the natural world.
In Winter, learners collected fallen twigs and branches to create Stick Sculptures, discovering the different qualities of natural materials through making and experimentation.
In Spring, the groups focused on the park’s Birds, using observation, binoculars, and photographs to study their appearance and habitats. Their discoveries were transformed into a series of ink drawings. A group of local volunteers later embroidered selected artworks, creating a collaborative hanging textile piece.
Summer inspired Collected Colour, a series of four large paintings based on colours gathered from flowers and leaves around the park. Participants organised their findings into colour wheels before creating abstract paintings influenced by the work of Sir Frank Bowling, renowned for his vibrant explorations of colour and light.
In Autumn, learners created Leaf Masks using fallen leaves collected in the park. The finished masks were photographed, preserving these temporary artworks and celebrating individual creativity.
Through observation, making, and collaboration, Seasons Change encouraged participants to engage with nature, develop new skills, and experience the changing character of Brookmill Park throughout the year.
Seasons Change was funded by the Deptford Challenge Trust and supported by Lewisham College, Friends of Brookmill Park and Glendale.
A big thank you to Roman Aspeek Bloor, chair of Friends of Brookmill Park.
