The Nettle Dress +Q&A

A documentary that is truly inspirational, following British textile artist Allan Brown over seven years as he finds healing after his wife’s untimely death, through weaving a dress from foraged nettles.

A slow film about slow craft that is at the same time gripping yet meditative, offering space for us to reflect on our own lives and losses, and to sense a yearning for our own connection to, and nourishment from, nature.

Brown’s philosophical words and calm act as balm to the soul.  “It feels like it’s been a process of weaving a shroud,” he says, because it was there to absorb loss and grief; the process has been transformational.”

Aptly screening in the verdant setting of our Community Greenhouses, the film will be preceded by botanical cocktails as well as zero waste snacks from Jarr Market and the opportunity to wander around the beautiful gardens, followed by a Q&A with Allan Brown and filmmaker Dylan Howitt, accompanied by the star of the show itself, the lustrous nettle dress.

Outdoor screening: There will be seating but bring whatever you need to stay warm. NB: In case of rain, the screening will be relocated indoors at the barn. Bring a torch for exiting the park after the event.

FREE MAKES IT INCLUSIVE, DONATIONS MAKE IT HAPPEN 

As part of this year’s Herne Hill Free Film Festival we are pleased to be supporting again the Norwood & Brixton Food Bank, helping to raise awareness for this most worthy of local causes. Any spare change collected at each of our screenings would be greatly appreciated and donated* to help this wonderful charity continue the admirable work.

*After we have covered our production costs