Allanbank Mill Steading

Allanbank Mill Steading - Open Studio

The first weekend in August has arrived and that means artists Pauline Burbidge and Charlie Poulson have opened their studios at Allanbank Mill Steading, in the Scottish Borders, again. https://www.allanbankmillsteading.co.uk
I think this is the twenty sixth year they have thrown open their inspirational home and workspace to the public. We have been keeping the appointment for many years now, and it is something we always keep in mind for our summer diary. It is a visit not to be missed!

Firstly we visit Pauline's design studio. It is a light and peaceful space. She lays out all her sketchbooks, and quilting design ideas and trial pieces. It is a treasure trove of inspirational work and found items. It's my favourite part of the exhibition.

For us, the gardens are the other highlight of our visits. The attention to detail is impressive and it is lovely to wander around and see what's new this year!

A final admiring look at some of Pauline's work. Her quilts are intricate but the inspiration for her work is so simple - feathers, different leaf forms, plant stems and seed heads, using a restrained palette of indigo, black, soft greys and white. Clever lady!

We are not the only visitors who return every year! The swallows have a favourite nesting place under the eaves of an outhouse, and these little chicks were eagerly awaiting a parent bird to pay a flying visit with some welcome lunch.

Until next year!

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