After returning from Mexico in late 2014 I came across several strange, but wonderful porcelain flowers in the window of a local op-shop. As my current body of work (in progress for my next solo exhibition) focuses largely on flora, these cast-off objects triggered my imagination - a garden in three dimensions could make an interesting addition to my relief works in reclaimed needlework and paper and a development of my newly discovered sculptural practice. I see a strong connection to the needlework I use, in that these ceramic objects have also been discarded, even disinherited. They are no longer in vogue or seen as useful - they no longer have the cultural currency they once did. Like doilies and table linens, the decorative porcelain (and some Lucite) objects once adorned the dressing tables and other furniture of people's homes, reminding them of the garden beyond. Some were also made to rest on the gravestones of loved ones. This new collection and body of work-in-progress, also represents the beginning of my new 'treasure-hunt' in the op-shops, markets and garage sales. Below is a taste of the growing collection, installed temporarily on one of my studio work tables and the final arrangement, (which in the end was inspired by an earlier relief work, the Heart Garden) which has gone on to take up residence in its very own custom made 'heart plinth'.