embodied landscape

Living on Lundy, where the Atlantic Ocean creates the very essence of ‘living in the landscape,’ (Gros 2023), it feels a very immersive life, shaped by relentless weather patterns. With no buildings or trees to shield against nature’s fluctuations, it simply engulfs you. This exposed island, anchored in granite rock and defined by its edgelands embodies the true spirit of landscape.

My purpose in crafting this blog/journal is to open a window into the creativity and reflections inspired by this 3-mile-long, 1/2 mile-wide island, inviting those with an appreciation for its uniques to join the conversation.

Identifying as a walking artist, I find my creativity ignited by the simplicity of walks on Lundy. Free from the distractions of noise, both vocal and visual, these walks foster a deep connection to the landscape through the senses. Engaging in tactile exploration, tracing history, and observing seasonal changes become integral aspects of my walking practice. I aspire to guide sensory walks, where the focus is on investigating places and spaces beyond the limitations of mere sight. A recent exhibition showcased my collaborative efforts with visitors to explore the predominant senses engaged while traversing Lundy’s terrain in an attempt to locate letterboxes.

My craftwork is a direct reflection of the landscape’s influence. Drawn to traditional processes such as crochet, spinning, and weaving, I enjoy the tactile experience that these crafts offer, immersing myself in the landscape and using its elements to weave compelling stories. The colors in my work are often drawn from the ever-changing hues of the island, mirroring the changing seasons.

In my dedication to sustainability, I spin the fleece of Lundy’s sheep and employ both peg and tapestry looms to craft textured rugs and wall hangings. Driftwood, brought by the tides are used within them. Even discarded Landmark Trust sofa coverings find new purpose, transformed into rugs that escape the fate of a landfill. This commitment to minimal environmental impact is woven into the very fabric of my practice, with some of my creations finding a natural home within the landscape, hidden among the trees.

As an all-year-round sea swimmer, my affinity for the ocean fuels a commitment to protecting coastal environments. Exhibiting at the Lundy Marine Festival, I featured Ghost Net baskets—a stark reminder of the perils posed by abandoned fishing ropes and ghost nets to marine life if left unchecked on beaches or in the depths.

Through this blog/journal, I endeavor to share not just my creativity but also the essence of living a life intricately connected to the distinctive landscape of Lundy.

Reference:

Gros, F., (2023). A Philosophy of Walking. Verso Books.