Basking in the Sun at The Kampong

On October 18, 2025, we collaborated with Mother Nature herself in a hands-on workshop with interdisciplinary photographer and educator Nicole Combeau at The Kampong, National Tropical Botanical Garden, where members created their very own anthotype prints and hand-stitched dos-à-dos books.

The 19th-century photographic process of anthotypes uses light-sensitive materials derived from leaves, flowers, or fruits to make a natural solution for printing in color from negative space. Inspired by the invitation to slow down and connect with our natural environment, we encouraged members to tap into their inner artists and craft compositions using objects such as acetate slides, leaves, and letters. But, instead of stepping into a dark room to develop film, we walked them into the sunlight surrounded by spectacular banyans, palms, and tropical plants.

This camera-less technique, also known as “kitchen photography,” engaged us more deeply with process-based work and each other—and all by design. Combeau explains, “I want people to remember that creativity is inherent to their humanity—that it’s a right, and a powerful tool for connection to self, place, and community.” Read our Q&A with the artist here.

While on-site, we observed the work-in-progress of previously commissioned artist Lee Pivnik, who is building his most ambitious sculpture yet: a fountain that filters water from Biscayne Bay using native Oolite stone. Inside the Fairchild-Sweeney house, a historic building within The Kampong, we also previewed Rootwork—a solo exhibition by Naomi Fisher exploring her 25-year practice of botanically-inspired art-making and community building in Miami. Rootwork is on view through December 31, 2025.

We are incredibly grateful to Combeau’s team, Marie Franco, Ọmọlará, and Tom Virgin of Extra Virgin Press, for their thoughtful support throughout the process. Sincere thank you to The Kampong for opening their doors, and to our sommelier, Frances Lalas, for Fortuitous wine. This work is made possible through the support of our member community and team—thank you all for sharing your light with us.

Photography by Chantal Lawrie.