This June, Exmoor comes alive with a captivating fusion of storytelling and stained glass artistry as acclaimed author and illustrator Jackie Morris collaborates with glass artist Tamsin Abbott to present Wild Folk: Tales From the Stones. The exhibition and book launch will be held on Saturday, June 21, and Sunday, June 22, at White Rock Cottage in Simonsbath, reconnecting to the project’s origins at Northmoor House in Dulverton where their creative journey began during a residency.
Published by Boundless, Wild Folk features seven enchanting fables penned by Jackie Morris, brought vividly to life by Tamsin Abbott’s intricate stained-glass panels—marking the first time stained glass has been commissioned to complement a printed publication. These stories weave themes of transformation and ancient myth, showcasing shape-shifting spirits and wild beings that echo timeless folklore in a contemporary voice.
Timed perfectly with the summer solstice, the event offers an immersive experience, featuring a live working studio where Jackie and Tamsin invite visitors to witness their creative process in action. The exhibition also includes works by fellow artists and silversmiths Rachel Bailey, Eva John, and Jo Taylor, adding further layers of artistry to the celebration.
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Jackie Morris is renowned for co-creating The Lost Words with Robert Macfarlane, a book honored with the prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal in 2019. As a Fellow of Hereford College of Art and recipient of the Hay Festival Medal for Illustration, her celebrated works also include The Unwinding and the fold-out series starting with Fox and Otter.
Tamsin Abbott brings over twenty years of experience in painted stained glass, drawing from her background in medieval literature and inspiration from British countryside folklore. Her stained-glass panels have appeared on BBC’s Countryfile and in exhibitions at the Museum of British Folklore and the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic. Wild Folk represents her debut in book illustration.
Admission to the exhibition is free. Opening hours are from 10 am to 6 pm on Saturday and 10 am to 4 pm on Sunday. The venue can be found via the What3Words location ///funky.cuddled.lyricism.