About the event

The Green Bell Jar is a new collection of paintings by acclaimed artist Dan Llywelyn Hall, inspired by the trees of Bottengoms Farm, the historic Essex home of writer Ronald Blythe and artists John and Christine Nash. 

Dan first met Ronnie when painting his portrait. Following the writer's death in 2023, Dan returned to Bottengoms to capture in ink, paint, and graphite the spirit of a landscape where art, literature, and nature have long been intertwined. 

These paintings reflect the farm’s quiet poetry and tranquillity by focusing on the natural architecture of trees, referred to by writer and broadcaster Richard Mabey as a 'green bell jar'. Many of these totemic sentinels are reaching the end of their natural lives, so this exhibition also stands as a record and celebration of their long guardianship. 

Bottengoms Farm has been a sanctuary for artists and writers for nearly a century. Once home to the Nashes and later Ronald Blythe, who bequeathed it to the Essex Wildlife Trust, it stands today as a living bridge between art and conservation. It is a space where creativity and the natural world continue to inspire one another.

The Green Bell Jar marks the first ever exhibition of new work inspired by Bottengoms Farm since it passed to the Trust, celebrating the beginning of a new chapter in its story. Half of all proceeds from the sale of works will directly support the Bottengoms project, helping to safeguard this unique house and garden as a hub for creativity and nature.

The paintings are being exhibited in the main Hanningfield building at the opposite end from the café counter. You do not need to book, just turn up during our opening hours (10am-4pm, 7 days a week).

Parking information

Parking on site including disabled parking.

Bicycle parking

Yes

Access

The disabled toilet is separate from the ladies and men’s, no radar key needed.

Access to the reserve is through the Nature Discovery Centre.  Some walking trails are wheelchair friendly, please call into the centre and ask for details.

Dogs

No dogs permitted

Facilities

Visitor centre
Bird hides
Toilets
Shop
Café/refreshments
Picnic area
Accessible toilet
Baby changing facilities
Wifi