Verve catches up with artist and gardener Katie Battersby.
What do you love most about your work?
I’m an artist. My garden and what I grow is a continuous source of inspiration. I oscillate between garden and studio daily as one informs the other. I feel connected to the seasons, from the dormancy of winter to the rapid growth of spring. I’m amazed by new growth and equally by decay.
How would you describe your work, do you have a particular style?
We have inherited a formal garden which we endeavour to maintain and add to. One of its defining characteristics is the established trees – the symmetry is slowly being undone by huge roots as it rewilds itself. I have a kitchen garden and a studio garden I like to plant seasonally. There aren’t any rules and it’s fairly eclectic.
Can you share what trends or changes you are seeing in New Zealand in landscape design and everyday gardening?
Gardening is having a renaissance. It’s a counterpoint to consumer culture and a return to creative culture. Beyond that, it’s about slowing down and reconnecting to nature and the seasons. Getting dirt under your nails is cathartic, serotonin enhancing, and generally good for you!
You’re one of the designers at this year’s Auckland Garden Designfest, can you tell us a bit about the event and your featured garden?
We live in an historic house with a heritage garden. My garden and my studios will be open for people to visit. I’m lucky enough to have two studios, one in the garden where I paint, and then a clean space to view and store my work inside the house. Hopefully people will enjoy seeing my work in the garden setting in which they were created.
The Auckland Garden Designfest is on 23-24 November, 10am – 4pm, see more here gardendesignfest.co.nz
