THE second of three seasonal trails featuring the work of Roald Dahl artist Sir Quentin Blake will open this weekend at Washington Wetland Centre.
The Drawn to Water autumn trail will launch this Saturday, September 16 at the WWT centre, giving visitors the chance to get close to nature and enjoy the change of season.
The new trail is the second in a year-long partnership of nature and art between Sir Quentin and the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT).
Launched back in May, Drawn to Water: Quentin Blake at the WWT is a collaboration between the renowned illustrator and the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust.
It features a selection of his wetland-themed images in collect-and-keep illustrated guides which accompany trails around the centre.
Following the summer trail, the autumn adventure will begin on Saturday with a winter version to follow, focusing on the different wetland behaviour and changes at different times of the year – and brought to life by Sir Quentin’s images.
“While every season in our wetlands is special, autumn is an ideal time to immerse yourself in the sensory side of nature,” said Leanne McCormella from Washington Wetland Centre.
“The crunch of leaves underfoot, the sounds of migrating birds, the ever-changing scenery – Sir Quentin’s instantly recognisable images really embrace that and more.
“The greens of summer will soon transform into a rich riot of golds, oranges and browns and envelop you in their beauty, while autumn’s gentle light lends our diverse mix of habitats and landscapes a magical glow.
“Our visiting species change too, with the arrival of black-tailed godwits, little egret and ruff and an increase in kingfisher sightings.
“This really is a wonderful opportunity to see why autumnal wetlands are so incredible and why they influence so many artists, including Sir Quentin Blake.”
As part of the initiative, the trails are being supported by a range of art-based public activities designed help visitors of all ages and abilities explore nature through art.
These include a nature journaling session with artist Steve Parue on Saturday October 7, an owl watercolour workshop with artist Amy Brookes on Tuesday October 14 and Eek Week held over October half term.
Visitors can also enter a national art competition for a chance to win a unique embossed Sir Quentin Blake wetland print.
For more information or to book any activities, visit the Washington Wetland Centre website.
