Jake Hobson, founder of Niwaki, Dorset importer of tripod ladders and fine pruning tools from Japan, is joining us at Forde Abbey to demonstrate topiary trimming. Jake, who trained as a sculptor at the Slade School of Fine Art in London, now creates living sculpture from plants and favours a style of more natural style of topiary which he call ‘organic topiary’ which combines the more relaxed European style with the formal Japanese. He describes himself as being “as happy pruning up a pine tree as he as at the drawing board” and whilst based in Dorset, consults and lectures worldwide.

Niwake can be found exhibiting their tools and ladders on the East Lawn adjacent to the Artisan Marquee on both days of the festival and Jake will be demonstrating his style of topiary trimming on Saturday 16th September. See festival programme for details.