OCGD going from strength to strength

Having completed the OCGD Post Grad Diploma in September, 'coming down' has been a bit more drawn out than I thought it would be!

Duncan (the college principal) has completely revamped the course and started the first online 'virtual reality' course which runs alongside the terrestrial 'real reality' version now located in the beautiful Maplethorpe building of Oxford's St Hughs college. No wonder they have DOUBLED the student numbers for this years courses!

Lucky for us, the OCGD alumni, that we have full access to this excellent set of material AND the forum that goes along side it AND all the masterclasses running this year, and of course, our ongoing and inspiring, Flickr group still loaded with new imagery. So my withdrawal symptoms from all the intense studies, practicals and academics can be soothed somewhat by a moderate amount of immersion in all things designer-y

Knoll gardens, a masterclass

I am rather excited about visiting Knoll Gardens for a masterclass with Neil Lucas in the autumn (2010). After a visit last year I was won over by his use of grasses and the ethereal planting-scapes they have created at their gardens in Dorset.

From 2009-10-18 1

Meet the Designer masterclass with John Brookes

Oxford College of Garden Design is hosting a series of meet the designer talks on Thursday evenings at St Hughs, Oxford. This week the Garden design legend John Brookes was the speaker. The mentor of our Principal, it was clear why such strong friendship and professional admiration has developed between them. John Brookes is undoubtedly one of the most influential garden designers of the late 20th century, renown for his design work, his teaching and his numerous books and writings. Brookes in person is a delightful and knowledgeable speaker, with a charming, understated humor flowing easily as he recounts stories of projects, clients and beloved gardens.

As he talked about his work over the last half century it struck me that what makes him a legend is probably his ability to work with people and transform their dreams into something universally elegant and appropriate to the building in which they have made their home or their professional workspace. Once can imagine that he is a consummate diplomat in the face of awkward clients and suppliers.

An uplifting and inspiring evening that has inspired me not only to examine his work and philosophy in more depth but also to get out there and design, write and photograph as much as possible, to be seen!

It is Masterclass seaons - begning with Andy Sturgeon

One of a series of Masterclasses run by Oxford College of Garden Design at St Hughs college Oxford.

A well known TV personality Andy Sturgeon talked us through his extensive portfolio of work residential and commercial and then a quick foray into show gardening for the RHS. Regaling us with tales of his early days, which to be honest was a relief to hear that all was not plain sailing, and that a smattering of speculative risk taking and opportunity making was required to establish himself early on. Sometimes it is just hard to hear over and over how tough it is going to be and how many people fail, sometimes it is simply good to hear 'you can do it if you believe in yourself' and, take steps to put you money where your mouth is.

Interesting to hear his philosophy on taking inspiration from artists, such as Anish Kapoor, and how it can be successfully interpreted for the garden situation.

A highly entertaining and informative lecture.