There’s something special about driftwood I find; imagining where its come from and how long its been at sea. And how much that ocean journey has transformed its shape, texture and colour. I suppose having lived inland on the North American content for over 14 years of my life, I have a rejuvenated excitement in being next to the coast. The ever changing tides, the flora and wildlife…and of course the never ending supply of driftwood that comes in all year round.
As I’ve mentioned previously, making things out of driftwood has become a popular form of eco-friendly, coastal-inspired art in the UK. And of course, across many parts of the world as well. This natural, weathered wood is used to create incredible things such as sculptures, furniture, decorative pieces, and even architectural elements. This art form blends craftsmanship with sustainability and often reflects themes of nature and the sea.
Driftwood drying
Driftwood drying out on the Study window ledge
I go collecting driftwood probably once every 2 weeks. The place I go is about 3 miles from where I live, over in the Rest Bay area. The beaches there stretch out for miles and miles. Huge golden sands when the tide is out, reverting to mostly grey pebbled beaches when the tide is in. And at the high tide edge is where the sea leaves its driftwood treasure (as well as a whole host of other flotsam and jetsam).
Normally I collect 2 big carrier bags full of driftwood that catches my eye. Maybe I’ll scout out just white salted pieces, or perhaps just anything unusual that catches my eye. Sometimes it’ll be bone dry, other times needing a good few days exposure to the sun on the window ledges at home (pictured here). When the latter happens our postman jokes that I’ve become a driftwood hoarder!
Each piece of driftwood I use is hand-cut and sanded. All done in the kitchen over the sink (yes, my Mum was slightly horrified to hear that). I normally cut long pieces into 6″, 7″ and 8″ lengths. Smaller and unique/weird pieces are sorted and boxed immediately. I now have about 15 plastic containers full of prepared driftwood all set for me to be creative! It’s surprising how quickly those box’s contents diminish too.