Step back in time Well Dressings are a unique form of folk art which dates back to ancient times. Communities throughout the world have decorated Wells and springs to give thanks for the clean fresh water. Here in Tissington the tradition can be traced back to when the Black Death (Bubonic Plague) swept through the country from the mid to the end of 14th Century. The clean water in the Wells of Tissington kept the villagers safe and they began the tradition of Well Dressings to celebrate and be thankful. Experience the Art of Well dressings The Well Dressings here in Tissington are truly amazing pieces of art that can be appreciated as you stroll around the picturesque village itself. Every Well Dressing design is a unique original work of art created by a local artist. Each of the six Wells in Tissington has it’s own theme and these change every year. The skills of the villagers in transforming the artist's visions into the hand-crafted well dressings using elements from nature has to be seen to be fully appreciated. A painstaking process that involves the whole village! The Process The creation of the Well Dressings begins with soaking the wooden backboards in the village pond for several days. This process ensures as much moisture can be retained as possible to preserve the well dressings. A layer of clay is then needed to hold the petals, leaves and other natural elements to the back boards. This clay is dug out from local fields and then “puddled”, a process where the clay is trodden on to get it to the right consistency. Salt is then added to the clay to help it retain water. After these processes the clay can finally be plastered onto the back boards. From here the meticulous process of “pricking out” the designs onto the clay needs to be completed. This needs to be done accurately to ensure designs work correctly. Then the final process of applying the petals, leaves, beans and seeds etc can take place and the well dressings can truly come alive! We think you will agree the craftsmanship and many, many hours of time volunteered by everyone involved truly has to be admired. Join the Celebrations - Raising money for local Charities and Preserving the Cultural Heritage Your support helps to ensure that this cherished tradition continues to thrive for generations to come and that local charities can benefit from all the money raised. Last year over £10,000 was raised for local charities from the car parking fees and donations made to the Wells. Well Dressings are such an exciting time here in Tissington. There will be charity stalls around the village or in the Village Hall. The Church is open showing fascinating film footage of how the wells are made. Herbert's Fine English Tea Rooms will be open for refreshments, AJ Holmes traditional butchers will be open selling a selection of locally sourced meats and locally made pies. There will be a stall of handmade Raku bowls and vases made by renowned local artist Ian Palmer. And of course we will be open at here at Tissington Craft Corner, where we stock a range of Tissington Village and Well Dressings inspired products, alongside locally made homewares and gifts. Why not stay in the Village at Derbyshire Holiday Cottages | Derbyshire Holiday Apartments | Tissington Hall Village Holidays or bring your caravan or motorhome to Tissington Caravan and Motorhome site caravanclub.co.uk/certifiticated-locations/england/derbyshire/ashbourne
We look forward to seeing you!
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