Bare: Origins of the Path is a community workshop designed to lift spirits, build connections, and combat the winter blues.
Held on Monday evenings from 6:15 PM to 8:00 PM at The Create Place, St. Margaret’s House, this program combines movement, creativity, and meaningful conversation, offering a space for participants to connect, share stories, and feel energized for the week ahead.
These Monday sessions are intentionally crafted to act as a foundation for starting the week with more purpose and routine, encouraging participants to build a more intentional and fulfilling lifestyle. Each session starts with a relaxed 30-minute walk around the local area, providing an opportunity to unwind, get active, and connect with nature. Participants can leave their belongings at The Create Place before the walk for comfort and convenience. Some walks include prompts, such as gathering leaves or observing the changing landscape, which serve as inspiration for the creative session that follows. After the walk, we’ll gather indoors to enjoy a hot herbal drink inspired by qi practices, using ingredients like turmeric, clove, and honey to uplift energy and mood. This helps transition from the busy workday to a peaceful, creative environment.
The creative portion of each session includes two parts: the first focuses on basic elements like shape, colour, and texture, often inspired by items from the walk. The second half encourages deeper personal expression and reflection, where participants can add their own unique touch to their creations. This approach fosters a spirit of collaboration and creativity, where participants focus on the joy of the process rather than perfection.
A key feature of Bare: Origins of the Path is its connection to local experts. Throughout the program, we invite local gardeners, herbalists, and healers to join us for special sessions, offering insights into the local natural environment, teaching herbal remedies, and sharing wellness tips. This collaborative effort not only enriches the experience for participants but also supports local businesses and cultural sites.
I’m Hayleth, the creator of this project. As a freelance graphic designer, all-round creative, and lover of visual storytelling, I bring a passion for combining art and community connection. My background in Design Technology and volunteering in community gardens has shown me how creativity can foster meaningful relationships. I’m excited to share this unique experience of walking, making, and connecting with a wider community.
Through Bare: Origins of the Path, my goal is to create a space where we can share our stories, spark new ideas, and find renewal in each other’s company. Together, let’s build a welcoming environment that celebrates connection, routine, and the strength we draw from one another.
“Walking is movement, the heart beats more strongly, the blood circulates faster and more powerfully... The earth’s rhythms draw that along, they echo and respond to each other.” — *Fredric Gros, Philosophy of Walking
About Hayleth: I’m Hayleth Dawkins, a passionate explorer of visual storytelling and creative experiences, deeply inspired by the textures, colours, and elements of the world around me. My journey has been shaped by a love for bringing people together through creativity. As a Design Technology technician, I had the privilege of helping students unlock their artistic potential, and as a volunteer in community gardens, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of cultivating both plants and meaningful connections.
These experiences have given me a profound appreciation for the role of community and collaboration in personal and collective growth. Through this project, I’m thrilled to create a space where we can share stories, lift each other’s spirits, and explore the joy of creating together.
I believe that when we come together with intention and curiosity, we can spark inspiration, connection, and positive change. Let’s build a welcoming environment where everyone feels encouraged to engage, collaborate, and thrive.
Venue: The Create Place, 29 Old Ford Road, E2 9PJ (Plan your visit)
Access: If you have any access needs of which we should be aware, please let us know. Entry to The Create Place is step-free but the toilet is not accessible. If you need access to an accessible toilet, please let us know so we can arrange that.
Dates:
Monday 20th January
Monday 10th February
Monday 3rd March
Monday 24th March
Time: 6.15-8pm
Ticket Price: £5/£7.5/£10