
Open Studios
Somerset Open Studios
Fiona Campbell’s recent work showing during Somerset Open Studios. Wander around her sculpture garden/studio (safe measures in place). By appointment
Fiona's ACE-funded lockdown project Life in the Undergrowth is on show as part of Somerset Open Studios, alongside some of her other work: drawings, sculptures, textiles and film.
About the project:
'In isolation, appreciating and attending to nature seemed vital. My garden became my world, providing a sense of peace and purpose. Life in the Undergrowth was inspired by small hidden worlds that get overlooked - garden feeding art and art feeding garden.
A fascination with entangled roots, worms and shoots in upturned turf led to experimental responses using to-hand materials and found objects. I drew knotted clumps; dried pondweed, sunbleached, became paper; handmade tools from natural debris generated drawings, sculptures evolved and I made films.
While digging to make space for a studio bay, I found a glut of old rusty nails to use in my work. I sold my soil locally - a circular economy. Communing with small creatures, witnessing transformation, life and death, it has been emotional at times. Encounters between myself, garden as site and nature helped me form a stronger bond with all that comes and goes'.
About the project:
'In isolation, appreciating and attending to nature seemed vital. My garden became my world, providing a sense of peace and purpose. Life in the Undergrowth was inspired by small hidden worlds that get overlooked - garden feeding art and art feeding garden.
A fascination with entangled roots, worms and shoots in upturned turf led to experimental responses using to-hand materials and found objects. I drew knotted clumps; dried pondweed, sunbleached, became paper; handmade tools from natural debris generated drawings, sculptures evolved and I made films.
While digging to make space for a studio bay, I found a glut of old rusty nails to use in my work. I sold my soil locally - a circular economy. Communing with small creatures, witnessing transformation, life and death, it has been emotional at times. Encounters between myself, garden as site and nature helped me form a stronger bond with all that comes and goes'.

CREDIT