terriloui

I have great timidity in being outdoors by myself, actually. I startle easily, I perceive danger and wild animals ready to pounce where others see a calm, inviting forest. But I like to explore and have been seeking an outdoor challenge.

One of my favorite book characters is Mistress Mary quite contrary from The Secret Garden, who gathers her gumption and sets about uncovering and exploring an untamed, unfamiliar space, the out of doors.

She stole a garden, I have borrowed a forest.

Lindsay Nolting asked if I wanted to come out to her Gum Spring property and make art, yes, yes, by whatever means, yes!  She described her annual Open Studio on Sat. Sept. 29, rain or shine, in and about her home and acreage, in bucolic, historic Columbia.

In mid August, Barry and I set out on the half hour drive from Scottsville on Route 6, East along the James River, to the former Town of Columbia, taking a left on Stage Junction Road. With Dulcy dog and Lindsay, we walked the woods, explored the creeks, delighted in forest bathing. I took reference pictures, soaking in the site and imagining what sort of found materials I would use, and what form of installation would happen.

I’ve been back twice since, with clippers, hand saw, boots, and water bottle. I’m going back today, undeterred by several recent stories of copperhead snakes. Then there’s Hurricane Florence and whatever she may do tomorrow.

I’ve asked Barry to teach me some knots and lashing. I’ve chatted with my friend Michael about construction techniques and outdoor aesthetics. It’s begun. What exactly is it? Working through that TBD phase…

The postcard announces “In House and Yard” paintings by Lindsay Nolting, to which she added “Beyond the Curtilage” woodland installations by Terri Long. Points for another vocabulary word.

You’ll find me and my work in the woods, somewhere about and beyond the curtilage, standing in the creek or maybe on a fallen tree.