Art project to help people connect with nature

An art project hopes to inspire people to connect with their surrounding landscape

A £2m national art project aims to inspire people to connect with landscapes to improve their wellbeing.

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in England, Wales and Northern Ireland were renamed "National Landscapes" last year.

The team behind National Landscapes has now launched Nature Calling - a programme which will see people co-create artworks inspired by 34 National Landscapes, including the Mendip Hills and Weston-super-Mare.

Artworks will go on display to the public between May to October 2025.

Taking inspiration from the UK's National Landscapes, writers will start the creative process with words in the form of poetry, song, prose or rap.

Using these words, local communities will work with artists to co-create their presentation piece. This could include dance, theatre, installation or music.

'Awe-inspiring work'

Project development officer for the Mendip Hills National Landscape Team Tim Haselden said his branch was "excited" to be part of the project.

National Landscapes' chief executive John Watkins said: "Working with art and artists is a means of discovering and appreciating a richer understanding of what is important and special in these landscapes.

"In turn, this art can influence those whose voice and power dominates the sector. Challenging norms, tropes, and ways of working."

The project is funded by Arts Council England, the Department for Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs and National Landscapes in England.

Chief executive at Arts Council England Darren Henley said: “Throughout time, our greatest artists have been inspired by England’s wonderful landscape.

"Now, we’re supporting a new generation of artists to bring to life their own awe-inspiring work in response to our natural environment."