Viv (Hánqí) Li

Slow Blooming explores the social and cultural significance of female workers at the Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew. The project analyses historical records and botanical contributions, unearthing how gardens serve as both preservers and shapers of human experience. Through immersive installations in the Princess of Wales Conservatory, we bring to life the overlooked stories of these women while examining Kew’s architecture, microclimates, and cultural symbolism. 

Slow Blooming amplifies women’s roles across science, botany, conservation and reinstates their stories in public memory. Unearthing intersections of equity, expression, and conservation with Kew's living history.   

Visitors will learn about women's stories and reflect on gardens as spaces of knowledge, identity, and ecological care. Each installation narrates a chapter of their journey through time. The series begins with the Victorian era, honouring Annie Gulvin, the first female gardener at Kew. Moving into the World War period, highlighting women's pioneering roles during times of crisis. Transitioning into the Post-War era, marking their growing presence and influence. Culminating in the Modern era and envisioning the next generation of female horticulturists. 

A project co-directed with Prachi Pansare and Paige Joseph

Collaborators: 

Katherine Joseph, Editor  

Himanshu Bablani, Technician  

Joni Ayton-Kent, Voice artist  

Claire Healy, Project Mentor