The garden is often seen as a refuge, a place to forget worldly cares, removed from the real life that lies outside. But when we get our hands in the earth we connect with the cycle of life in nature, through which destruction and decay are followed by regrowth and renewal. Sue Stuart-Smith and Jonny Bruce will discuss how gardening can answer deep existential needs of self and society. Sue will explain recent research showing that connecting to nature can alleviate symptoms of anxiety, stress, and depression. Through his work at Prospect Cottage, Derek Jarman’s windswept garden in Dungeness, Jonny has a unique perspective of Jarman as artist/ gardener/activist who created his unlikely garden in the face of salt winds and discrimination whilst fighting his own battle against AIDS. The discussion will investigate the garden as refuge and the human need for connection.