By Alina Pirttilahti
Gardens can be beautiful to the extent that they spark inspiration, uplift mood, or induce tranquility; possibly all three at once. Yet not many people stop to consider who takes care of the gardens or where the gardens originated from. Do they have stories behind them? Were they once ruins that now bloom with life, or could gardens once teeming with life be now reduced to ruins? Every garden has a soul composed of unique stories that is simply waiting to be discovered and unraveled. Ambra Edwards is a garden writer whose aim is to do just that.
Ambra Edwards is a multiple award-winning writer who has a background studying garden history and horticulture. Out of the two, Edwards especially has an interest towards garden history, which, as its name implies, is a study of the history of gardens, and explores the connections that can be found between the art of gardening and other arts, such as architecture. She has published four books and numerous articles varyingly published from newspapers to magazines.
Edwards’ deep interest in garden history and gardens themselves is not something she has had since she was a child. Before she started gardening herself, she was not particularly intrigued by gardens at all. However, what truly inspired Edwards’ to be invested in gardens was a trip to Sissinghurst, a small town in England, where the Sissinghurst Garden Castle is located. This garden castle has a unique history spanning hundreds of years, which is why it is understandable that out of all places this garden is what truly peaked Edwards’ curiosity.
Being a garden writer, Ambra Edwards visits gardens, learning about them and learning about their owners. She uncovers the stories hiding either in the shadows of a world taken over by plants or lurking under beautifully architected arches. She then writes these stories into books and articles which keep the audience entertained yet are weaved with carefully researched facts (Penelope Hobhouse).
Writing is not Edwards’ only talent, she is also a talented speaker giving talks at different gardening or historical events. One of her most popular talks is “The Story of the English Garden” which delves into the history of gardens in England, dating all the way back to the Middle Ages. Edwards’ explains not only the outward look of the gardens but also how the gardens reflect that time period: fashion, technological development, even politics. Another of her popular talks is “Plant Hunters”, an introduction to the dangerous and exciting history of how plants have moved across the world.
Gardens are remarkable and not enough people seem to appreciate this. They are history in the form of art. They are full of stories and memories. Ambra Edwards sees this and through her writing and talks she communicates it to others.
Ambra Edwards is visiting Café Scientifique Rellu on the 4th of October at 17.00. Wellcome to listen the amazing talk!
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