Gourdlandia

This year, Hortus Forum had the opportunity to partner with Gourdlandia, a local Ithaca organization dedicated to celebrating the creativity, history, and sustainability of gourds through agricultural craft. Together, we hosted a hands-on workshop where members transformed naturally grown gourds into beautiful and unique nightlights, creating a memorable evening centered around creativity, community, and a deeper appreciation for the many ways plants can be used beyond traditional horticulture.

During the workshop, members learned about the process behind growing and preparing gourds for craft. From their cultivation in the field to the drying and curing process that allows them to become durable materials, we explored the many stages that turn a simple agricultural crop into a functional piece of art. The event introduced students to a unique form of sustainable craft and demonstrated how plants can connect agriculture, creativity, and everyday life.

The evening provided a relaxing opportunity for members to step away from the greenhouse and enjoy a different kind of hands-on plant experience. Working together, members shared ideas, helped one another with designs, and created one-of-a-kind pieces while learning about the history and versatility of gourds. The workshop highlighted the importance of looking at plants from different perspectives and recognizing the many roles they can play in culture, sustainability, and creative expression.

This partnership with Gourdlandia continued beyond the workshop, strengthening the relationship between our organizations. During the spring semester, Hortus Forum members had the opportunity to visit their farm and learn more about the process of growing, harvesting, and preparing gourds for carving. Through this experience, members gained a greater understanding of small-scale agriculture and the work involved in transforming a crop from the field into a finished craft.

We hope to continue building this partnership with Gourdlandia in the future by creating more opportunities for Hortus Forum members and the broader Cornell community to explore sustainable agricultural practices, creative plant-based crafts, and the many ways plants can bring people together. From growing plants in our greenhouse to creating art from agricultural materials, this collaboration reflects Hortus Forum’s mission of expanding plant education and inspiring a deeper connection with the natural world.