Nature Calling arts project: Creative Coastal Connections

Nature Calling is the first national programme of new art commissions by the National Landscapes Association with Activate Performing Arts. Funded by the Arts Council and Defra, its aim is to connect communities with protected landscapes and amplify new voices, culminating in a season of art.  

Creative Coastal Connections is produced by North East arts organisation GemArts and facilitated by lead artist Benji Spence with the support of three emerging artists.  

The Northumberland Coast National Landscape team welcomed the artists to Alnmouth last week for a sunny day exploring the beach.  Benji, Karanjot, Palak and Hesam are now going to explore creativity and connection to this protected landscape with culturally diverse community groups hosted by GemArts.   

GemArts Learning and Participation Manager Lily Daniels said: “Creative Coastal Connections is such a fabulous opportunity for the artists and communities we support at GemArts. Access to inspiring wild spaces and the wellbeing they provide have historically been limited for people of colour. The Northumberland Coast National Landscape holds a unique creative energy, one that everyone should experience. Bringing together these diverse artists and communities will create something truly inspiring, celebrating our shared creativity while deepening participants wellbeing and connection to nature.” 

 The final piece created by Benji will reflect participants’ perception of nature and the Northumberland Coast National Landscape through art.    

You can find out more about Nature Calling over at Naturecalling.org.uk.