Devon libraries host nature-inspired creative workshops during February half-term

Libraries across Devon are inviting families and residents to explore creativity inspired by the natural world this February half-term, with a programme of artist-led workshops taking place in five locations.

Tavistock, Okehampton, Teignmouth, St Thomas in Exeter and Chagford libraries will host a series of affordable, family-friendly events encouraging people of all ages to connect with nature through hands-on creative activities. The workshops range from painting with plant-based pigments and lino printing to paper and cardboard sculpture celebrating wildlife and local landscapes.

The programme is being delivered by Libraries Unlimited, working with local artists and supported by funding from Arts Council England, as part of ongoing efforts to position libraries as welcoming community spaces for creativity, wellbeing and learning.

The events come at a time when libraries in Devon are firmly in the public spotlight, with a county-wide consultation currently under way on the future of library services. Organisers say the half-term programme highlights the important role libraries continue to play as accessible cultural hubs at the heart of their communities.

Artist James Lake will lead paper and cardboard sculpture workshops in Teignmouth and Tavistock, while Megan Dowsett will explore the creative possibilities of plants – from pigments to fibres – at St Thomas, Okehampton and Tavistock libraries. In Chagford, artist Devon Tipping will guide participants in creating symbolic lino-printed creatures inspired by nature and ideas of change.

Rae Hoole, Creative Communities Producer at Libraries Unlimited, said: “We are really looking forward to welcoming people into our libraries this half-term to explore nature! During the winter, it’s so important to maintain a connection to the wonder and creativity the natural world inspires. It’s such a great wellbeing resource! We’re excited to have such talented artists share new perspectives and teach new skills in our libraries.”

Tickets for bookable workshops can be reserved online, while several sessions are free drop-in events.

What’s on

Tavistock Library
Paper and Cardboard Sculpture – James Lake
Saturday 14 February, 12pm and 2pm–4pm
Monday 16 February, 10am–12pm
Free drop-in workshops, suitable for ages 4+

Painting with Nature – Megan Dowsett
Tuesday 17 February, 10am–12.30pm
Free drop-in workshop, suitable for families

Chagford Library
Creatures of Change – Devon Tipping
Thursday 19 February, 10.30am–1pm
£2 plus booking fee, all ages (under 16s accompanied)

St Thomas Library, Exeter
Woven in Nature – Megan Dowsett
Wednesday 18 February, 10am–12.30pm
£2 plus booking fee, suitable for ages 4+

Teignmouth Library
Paper and Cardboard Sculpture – James Lake
Wednesday 18 February, 10am–12pm and 2pm–4pm
£3/£1 plus booking fee, suitable for ages 5+

Wednesday 25 February, 10am–12pm
£3 plus booking fee, suitable for ages 18+

Okehampton Library
Woven in Nature – Megan Dowsett
Monday 16 February, 1pm–3.30pm
£2 plus booking fee, suitable for ages 4+

Further details and booking information are available online.