Marsh Mellow was an afternoon of free, drop-in family activities inspired by the unique environments of Crossness and Erith Marshes.

We took over the Town Square at The Exchange and playfully explored the Marshes through a series of accessible making, drawing and performing workshops that aim to strengthen children's knowledge of their natural environment.

In the company of four incredible artists J D Swann, Rights For Weeds, Sadie St. Hilaire and Victoria Noakes as well as environmental activist groups dedicated to marsh conservation, such as Ridgeway Users, Bumblebee Conservation Trust and the newly formed Old Golf Course group, we set for an inspiring day of creativity and environmental awareness.

The activities included:

1. Reclaim the Marshes (Hands off Crossness) with J D Swann: Engage in the creation of a monumental processional banner alongside J D Swann. Dive into discussions about the critical issues facing our marshes, with visual references to the remarkable creatures residing in these fragile ecosystems, including the Water Vole, Kestrel, Lapwing, Marsh Harrier, Shrill Carder Bee, and more.⁠

2. Stamp Making with Sadie St. Hilaire: Explore the marshland's creatures and plants through the art of stamp making. Craft your own stamps and use them to fashion beautiful landscapes.⁠

3. Create Your Own Marsh Plant-Creature with Rights For Weeds: Delve into the folklore and traditions surrounding the marshland plants. Using clay and foraged materials, craft incredible plant-based characters that tell stories of these unique ecosystems.⁠

4. Foreshore Drawing with Victoria Noakes: Immerse yourself in the foreshore and draw inspiration from found objects along the riverside. Discover the beauty in the details of nature's treasures.⁠