A Garden Journey – An Exhibition of Work by Francesca Needham

‘A Garden Journey’ is a vibrant multimedia celebration of nature’s beauty and resilience, inspired by Francesca Needham’s immersive visits to Helmsley Walled Garden from March to December 2025.

This exhibition is more than a timeline—it is a testament to growth, transformation, and the enduring magic of each season. Through propagation, the awakening of spring bulbs, the glory of summer blooms, and the generous harvest leading into winter’s hush, Francesca’s journey invites us to rediscover wonder in the world around us.

Born and raised in North Yorkshire, Francesca finds her soul restored amid the wild woodlands, rolling hills, and expansive moorland of her home. Helmsley Walled Garden offers her the same peace—a sanctuary where nature’s quiet wisdom inspires reflection and creativity, and where anyone can find a sense of belonging.

Francesca has spent many hours observing and capturing seasonal changes in colour, texture, and patterns within individual plants and the garden as a whole, all the while witnessing how volunteers and visitors alike shaped the space as the year progressed.

This striking exhibition of work will expertly showcase many complex printmaking techniques, using collagraph, intaglio and linocut to produce prints with fine detail capturing single moments within the garden, and using bolder designs to reflect interactions and observation within the wider garden context. Original paintings and drawings will also feature in this inspiring exploration of both plants and the work of those who grow them.

‘A Garden Journey’ will run from Friday the 5th of June to Sunday the 7th of June, in the Orchid House. The exhibition is free with paid garden entry (booking is not required). Under 16’s and carers go free. Garden gates open at 10am and close at 5pm.Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome.

Follow Francesca’s creative journey on Instagram 

Featured images ©️ Francesca Needham (FZN Designs)