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Dream Bird Studio

Color from plants…and a few bugs

 
Soon to be felt monster. It was dyed with windfall lichen I gathered off the frosty ground in my yard this morning. There was a Raven making a racket in a tree just up the hill- its whole body bellowing. The crows didn't take advantage of the compost today, so looks like the pair of Ravens is currently on top in the ongoing territory battle that includes our yard. I love the alchemy that keeps the dye bath very pale while the wool gets darker and darker. Plus my studio smells great now. Thank you lichen! Thank you sheep! #lichen #cooperation #naturemagic #naturaldyersofinstagram #happy
A tuft of windfall usnea in my yard. I am somewhat obsessed with lichen. Living on the Oregon Coast there are sooo many varieties. I love that every lichen is actually a collaboration between two or even three species. Most commonly a fungus, which builds the house, shacks up with an algae, that makes the food. Sometimes cyanobacteria live there too. It is worth noting that they don't have to live together. All the species can, and do, live as separate entities depending on the situation. Lichens exist as a marvelous cooperation. As if that isn't enough goodness, some lichens are powerful medicines, and others create beautiful colors on protein fibers like silk and wool. They dye without the assistance of a mordant. Ironically though they are the very picture of interdependence, they simultaneously are fully capable and independent. What healthy modeling for all us humans who are trying to figure out how to get along. These ancient wise beings often grow very slowly and may live centuries. They are capable of remaining dormant for a really long time, waiting out winter or a drought. They do need clean air to thrive. They are not invulnerable, though that isn't a good goal for anyone. There is never a need to pick living lichen off from branches. To gather respectfully is easy, the wind often carries them down out of the trees. A community member once brought me a big bag to dye with. They gathered it in their yard off a fruit tree that was blown over by a storm. Such a lovely gift because, Really, I just love Lichen. #lichen #pnw #oregoncoast #plantallies #herbalism #womensherbs #cooperation #plantteachers #naturaldyer
More from yesterday's walk. Red Flowering Currant, Ribes sanguineum. These flower buds will unfold into a glory that is irresistible to overwintering Anna's hummingbirds and pollinators. While I don't relish her berries, Towhees like them, which is enough to make me a big fan. I tried some leaves for ecoprinting last summer, but can not for the life of me remember how they printed. Goal: To be more methodical with my records this year. On our walk yesterday we also saw lots of pussy willows, and alder catkins just starting to let their hair down. Sending a big shout out to the early bloomers. Thank you! #nativeplants #oregoncoast #nativepollinators #redfloweringcurrant #pollinatorforage #gratitude #birdfriend #naturaldye? #natureheals
Rainbow walk in Alderbrook this afternoon. Sending the 🌈 🌄❤️ out to all of you. #rainbows #myneighborhoodincolor