We miss the woods throughout the winter, when the Wild Rumpus team are seeds scattered across live event sites, then more often at kitchen tables than under the oaks. In February, that missing becomes a craving, and we begin to re-establish ourselves in our woodland offices.
Projects and concepts that have settled quietly over the winter begin to stir, often benefiting from the nourishment of a period of inattention. Time in the woods right now is full of anticipation, both in the trees and soil and embodied in us, the two things entwined. Ideas in development are tentative, beautifully unformed, starting to seek the light. Our creative development team have spent time with a rich seedbed of ideas from our summer artist retreat applications, imagining each project growing amongst the hawthorns and ferns of the Whirligig. We’re so grateful to all the artists who have shared with us.
In sharp contrast to this introspection, the workshop in February is full of much more dynamic preparation and anticipation. The annual regeneration starts early here and with great intention, as our installations, structures, costumes and artworks are cleared, cleaned and stored with care.
The balance thought, and action can feel hard won when we’re deep in delivery, but at this time of year, in the beat before the woods and our work burst back into abundance, we welcome it.