Land art at Ruskin Mill

Natural landscapes are always beautiful to look at and experience, and we spend a lot of time in South Africa trying to “bring back the raw environment.” However, I have really been astounded by the effect of land art on the enhancement and enjoyment of the environment. Land art is something that is man made, usually out of natural forms that are located in unexpected and often unused environments but make you look more closely and appreciate the environment. The effect is the unexpected, and brings out a sense of “aha” or even “haha”

At Ruskin Mill, land art is everywhere and makes for an exquisite environment. Not only is it naturally a beautiful place, nesting below woods with a rushing stream and calm lake, every corner has an interesting and artistic artifact.

THE BUILDINGS

Besides the two old textile mills with their particular architecture. This  is Ruskin Mill(this is the BACK of the building)This is the water wheel that used to drive the Mill (but now only drives a light bulb unfortunately). Here are a number of craft areas built with nature in mind. This is the pottery.

This is the woodland kitchen where we have our daily meals. This is a little cottage at Ruskin Mill where a caretaker lives. This is what is commonly called “the pringle” by the students, on account of its shape. It is actually the field centre where lectures and courses are held. This is a shed used for green wood turning. It is open, but has a cosy little corner with a fire in winter.

ARTY FACTS

Here is some of the sculptures are unexpected art that you can find. Flow forms are everywhere, as the Ebb and Flow workshop, where they are made,  is located at ruskin Mill. Also the entire fishery and lake  is aerated by strategically placed flow forms. Not only does the water constantly flow everywhere, they are all incredibly beautiful.

SCULPTURES

Scattered in odd and unexpected corners are many sculptures, some in the middle of the forest, such as the last one, that some students decorated with flowers at Michaelmas.

Some are simply stones balanced on poles and other odd things.

These are two flat stones tied up with string to a branch overhanging the lake that clink with the water flow and moving of the branches.

Others are just useful devices but always with an artistic element.