Instagram post 5th September 2025
Retrospective Lifescape Research: a field trip š³š«
From solo walks to early conversations with @eastkeywatchet to writing this insta-post, this body of work that has no beginning, middle, or end. The exhibition is one point in the research; the field trip last week was another.
I brought together a group to explore the landscapes and ecologies of Lifescape. Without formal introductions or intense preparation, we met, walked, ate and talked, sharing our time, space, knowledge, and practices ā connecting our human world with that of rainforests, coastline, lichen, soil, stones and the weather. We also visited my exhibition, which reanimated my own understanding of it through the gaze of the group, and the conversations that emerged (which Iām sure will continue!).
The trip demonstrates the importance of broad circles ā so many people from different spaces care deeply about our planet, and it is powerful and comforting to connect, share and enjoy. Confronting the ecological collapse of our time also needs to be a celebration of what still is ā delighting in what we can experience, enjoying jokes, and local cider is also important!
With thanks to all involved, including:
Pat, who took us out in the much-needed rain to wonder at lichen; Jeffrey @jeffreythenaturalbuilder who introduced us to his wonderful workshop in the woods; Hope @with_the_wild_cic, for the foraging workshop and very memorable lunch; Tom for his Nettlecombe aquavit; Jess @jessicaprend and Millie @laingtateart @eastquaywatchet ā showing the power of the so-called peripheral; Alice @zone2source, Amanda @a.mullee, Andy @andrewjonathandickson, Heather @artandlivingsystems, Jens @jensvanderzee and Laura @lauracinti ā all of who bought knowledge and curiosity in equal measure.
Beautiful photos by Andrew Dickson @andrewjonathandickson