Free creative workshops connecting art, nature, and community

This project has come to an end. You can find more of our Community projects across London here.

Hands painting a bird box on a table outside.

About the project

Good Food Matters and Groundwork London are teaming up to offer a series of free art and wellbeing workshopsthat celebrate creativity, nature, and connection.

Using natural materials, you’ll have the chance to learn, make, and enjoy a variety of creative activities, from wreath making and foraging, to natural dyeing, textile art, and more.

These workshops will be welcoming, hands-on, and inspiring – a perfect opportunity to meet new people, learn new skills, and explore your creative side.

You’re welcome to join as many sessions as you like. Each workshop requires booking in advance, simply follow the Eventbrite links below to secure your spot. Spaces are limited to ensure a relaxed and engaging experience for everyone.

These workshops are funded by Croydon Loves You 2025, a grants programme supporting individuals, community groups, and arts and cultural organisations to deliver creative, arts-based projects that benefit the health and wellbeing of Croydon residents.

Venue: Good Food Matters, Mickleham Way, New Addington, Croydon CR0 0PN
Cost: Free (booking required – spaces are limited)

Previous workshops

All workshops are facilitated by artist and tutor Saryu Shah.
Click the booking links below to reserve your place.

The Art of Dried Flowers

Tuesday 18 November | 12:00 – 2:30 pm
Create your own cards using dried flowers, seed heads, and leaves, and make beautifully scented lavender bags and potpourri.

The Art of Natural Wreath Making

Saturday 29 November | 12:00 – 3:00 pm
Make a natural wreath using willow, vines, olive branches, ivy, foliage, cinnamon sticks, and dried seed heads.

The Art of Block Printing and Natural Dyeing

Saturday 6 December | 4:30 – 6:30 pm
A creative session for young people. Learn to block print and pound natural dyes onto tote bags and T-shirts, and take home your own unique design.

This event has been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. Please check back, as we may host it again in the future, and take a look at our other upcoming events in the meantime.

Rag Rug Weaving

Friday 23 January | 12:00 – 3:00 pm
Learn the principles of rag rug weaving using frames to create a decorative wall hanging from a mix of new and recycled textiles.

Appliqué Using Basic Sewing Techniques

Friday 30 January | 12:00 – 3:00 pm
Create a fabric decoration inspired by flower shapes, using traditional Japanese embroidery techniques.

Magical Bread Art for Kids

Tuesday 17 February | 10:30am – 12:00 pm
Let your child get their hands stuck into dough and then get creative using vegetables and herbs from our garden to decorate their own bread. These edible works of art can encourage children to be confident with their food, using their senses to explore, look, touch and taste.

Growing and Dyeing (Bundle and Pounding)

Tuesday 24 February | 12:00 – 2:30 pm
Make a uniquely decorated scarf using colour from plants and vegetable skins, and learn how to start your own dye garden.

Art in Nature

Friday 6 March | 12:00 – 2:30 pm
Take inspiration from artist Andy Goldsworthy to create a nature collage and try stone painting using materials found outdoors.

Foraging, Cooking and Folklore

Friday 20 March | 12:00 – 3:00 pm
Learn about edible plants through guided foraging, then use your finds to create simple dishes while exploring the folklore and stories connected to traditional food and nature.