When, in 2011, her parents downsized, she and her husband took up the mantle of tending its eight glorious acres, which are framed by woodland and farmland. And, at the heart of its undone, bucolic beauty sits a lean-to shed, lovingly restored – her cosy retreat, where she works on her photography and shapes her beautifully singular worldview.
Here she tells us about the five objects that mean the most to her in all the world.
Camera
Photography plays such an important role in my life. My camera travels with me wherever I go and translates the visual in my head into reality. It has become like a friend to me, and I sometimes feel that a part of me is missing if I am without it.
Gardening Tools
When I’m not taking pictures, I can usually be found gardening and these tools, which once belonged to my parents, mean so much to me. They are a connection to my childhood that I cherish. They are not perfect but very much used and loved.
Copper Watering Tray
I am an inveterate collector of gardenalia from antique fairs and online auctions. I was delighted to find this arts and crafts copper watering tray, probably my favourite online purchase. I love it for not only being beautiful but useful too.
Cornish Pebbles
Every year we go as a family to Cornwall and I always bring back a pebble from the beach. They are such beautiful tactile things, so lovely to feel in my pocket as I walk along the coast path. I have always searched for the perfect round pebble, an impossible task it seemed, until my daughter gave me this one that she had found for my birthday one year. It means so much to me and is the very best sort of present.
Studio Pottery Mug
I have a collection of studio pottery mugs, all different, which I love. Holding something handmade is a special experience and this particular mug is the one I have my morning coffee in. It fits perfectly into my hands and accompanies me on my first wander around the garden. It brings me joy when I hold it and is part of a happy ritual that starts my day.
