The Plant Hunters was a commissioned project for the National Trust at Wentworth Castle Gardens (2020–2021). I researched historical plant hunters who travelled across the globe to collect exotic species for the estate's greenhouses. Among the plants they introduced were magnolia, citrus, camellia, and rhododendron — all of which are featured in the final artwork.

Inspired by the intricate, flowing patterns of William Morris textiles, I designed a large-scale block repeat pattern entirely by hand, without the use of digital software. This was my first attempt at a repeat of this scale (A3), and although it posed challenges, my process-led approach allowed me to develop new techniques and solve problems creatively. The lino block was hand-carved using traditional tools and printed using eco-friendly fabric inks. Due to the size of the block, I had to physically jump on it and even used a sledgehammer to apply enough pressure for an even print — an unusual but effective solution that became part of the making story.

The resulting fabric was used in a nature-themed installation for the newly refurbished display cabinets in the Long Barn Café. I also created printed illustrations to accompany poems written in lockdown by Wentworth Castle volunteer Richard Hardgreaves. These were shown alongside natural materials gathered from the gardens to create a cabinet of curiosities, offering visitors a quiet moment to reflect on nature, poetry, and place.