THE results of a year-long community nature workshop, 'Discover the Undergrowth', have come to fruition and the findings can be seen in all their glory at Tavistock Library. This community project allowed everyone the opportunity to team up with artists from 'workshop under the sky', local scientists and West Devon Borough Council countryside and arts officers to produce a visual diary of the ecological transformation that takes place in the area through the year. Following on from previous Big Draw events, 'Discover the Undergrowth' was a unique way of recording the natural changes to the flora and fauna throughout the seasons, and more than 150 people contributed to the project. The workshops were open to all, were free of charge and artists and nature experts were on hand to help those interested in the local wildlife draw what they saw, explain the importance of a local nature reserve and identify different species of plants and animals. All the findings are now published in a community nature diary which is available to view in the library. Its aim is to inform residents of the diverse plant and animal life on their doorstep in Tavistock and encourage them to continue to 'discover the undergrowth' further. The project started in February, when pupils and students from Whitchurch Primary and the Molly Owen Centre began the diary with a winter walk along the old railway line. Further entries were made in May and October, by members of the public as part of Tavistock Music and Arts Festival and Big Draw event. The project has been supported through an arts grant from West Devon Borough Council and a National Lottery Awards for All contribution. The council's arts officer Julia Vella said: 'These events are a wonderful opportunity to become involved in community participatory arts, learn about a local nature reserve and develop creative skills, all with the help of experienced artists, scientists and rangers.'
