A WELSH willow artist with an impressive portfolio has installed two giant fox sculptures in the gardens of Picton Castle.

The four-metre-high foxy pair are Michelle Cain’s latest project. She originally studied and practiced Fine Art until meeting a Pembrokeshire basket maker, who inspired her to consider willow as a medium for creativity.

Michelle created burning willow men for Castell Henllys and the opening of the 40th Glastonbury Festival, wove a nest which featured in TV series Big Brother and made the Otter at the Wildlife Park in Cilgerran. She has also worked with BBC designers at Glastonbury Festival for the last three years, and won a commission for two giant snake sculptures for the film Your Highness, starring Natalie Portman and James Franco.

Alongside her own practice, Michelle enjoys sharing her skills and her passion for willow with others. She will be running a half-day Plant Climber Workshop at Picton Castle and Gardens on May 10 and, on June 1, a Hedgerow Basket Making Day. Call 01437 751326 for more details, as pre-booking is required.

Michelle’s Foxy Willows can be seen during normal opening times (10.30am – 5pm) and can be found in The Avenues, en-route to the Walled Garden. Take a look at

twistedhedge.blogspot.co.uk to see more of her super-sized creations.