I have a love-hate relationship with the phrase “bringing the outdoors in”. It always feels a bit hackneyed, even if it is an accurate way of describing that HQ lately, as the sun makes its first tentative appearance above Scotland, all chat has been about prepping and dressing our gardens. Were talking souped-up planters, upgraded sheds, what to sow, how to light, and where to find the best advice. Our dedicated gardens special starts on page 56 but you’ll notice throughout this issue that we’ve not been able to stay indoors. We take a peek around the home of Derek Jarman at Dungeness (page 46), but the late artistactivist’s house cannot be considered in isolation; it’s inextricably linked to his famous garden on the shingle beach on the Kent coast - a perfect love letter to the life he lived here in equal partnership. Likewise, on page 206, gardener and artist Bella Hoare has found ways to connect her home and studio with what lies beyond her windows. She has spent the last two decades cultivating the land around her home, Gasper Cottage, which she has worked into the botanical-inspired paintings that form part of her first solo exhibition. Even in our bathroom focus, on page 87, we’ve taken our ablutions out into the fresh air for some bathing. Gather up your must-haves - favourite chair, mug, storm lantern and head outside. Oh, and don’t forget your copy of the mag.
