BLACK Flower, Grey Bliss is an exhibition of monochrome images of Japanese knotweed, currently showing in Nailsworth.

Simon Packard's monochrome prints cover the entire surface of Ruskin Mill's gallery walls, offering the viewer an absorbing, immersive experience. This exhibition features printed collages of three different impressions from the same species. Each print outlines a different element: negative space, surface pattern and immersed detailing.

Japanese knotweed (fallopia japonica) was introduced in the 19th century as an ornamental plant, but is now regarded as an invasive pest due to its rampant growth and the damage to buildings caused by its underground root structure. Through the work, Simon hopes to invite the viewer to consider attitudes towards elements in society which are perceived as alien, unruly or unwanted, and how these attitudes may in turn drive responses of beauty and attractiveness, or disgust.

On October 4, Simon will be running a printmaking session inspired by the themes of the exhibition, where participants will collect plants and leaves in Horsley valley and then work with ink and presses to produce a finished print.

Black Flower, Grey Bliss continues at Ruskin Mill in Nailsworth until October 7.