Nature As A Resting Tool
How can we connect more mindfully with nature using a blend of digital and physical tools?
Come Together commissioned artist Emma Blake Morsi delivered hybrid experiences that empowered individuals to connect deeper with the outdoors and already existing networks of local outdoor groups, while also creatively sharing the stories of local residents who took part. The workshops explored holistic healing, environmental play and everything in between.
About:
Participants began by listening to a binaural soundscape created by Emma on Soundtrap which took them on an imaginative journey to a local green space with guided breathing exercises…
Participants were then encouraged to share their experiences of nature and take photos around the garden (or from their homes for those joining via Zoom) using disposable cameras.
The disposable cameras encouraged them to observe more deeply and removed the distractions of a mobile camera. Following creative photo prompts inspired a mindful and grounded experience of nature and the questions sparked deep discussion around how and why we experience nature, including what barriers people face in accessing green spaces.
At the Come Together Weekender, participants made photo collages (at KWMC and via Zoom) using photos from previous workshops.
After, those at KWMC walked to the Roundhouse in Springfield Allotments to chat over hot winter vegetable soup.
“We struggle to make time to prioritise for walking. It is such a benefit for our health in the long run but also in the immediate as well.”
Emma Blake Morsi
Emma was careful to consider how the experience for those participating in-person and those at home could be equal, or even enhanced for those joining virtually. She allowed for some parts of the overall experience to be accessible at different times and in different ways to address varying participant needs.
So for those who couldn’t or didn’t want to join the walk in-person, Emma curated music playlist and created this special recorded sound piece…
Find out how Emma’s stayed connected through the pandemic below…
Hybrid tips
“Ask yourself: What is the experience like for people in the virtual space versus physical space? It could be different goals for in person and at home (for example, taking time to rest rather than a communal walk).
Think about all access needs. Maybe someone can’t go for a physical walk – how could they use their designated time differently?
Help people to reimagine their physical space at home as an opportunity for play or rest – people might not always see home as a leisure space or place they want to be, especially if you might feel restricted at home. How can we encourage different perspectives?”
Emma Blake Morsi
Special thanks to Emma’s collaborators: local resident Rebecca Thompson, ‘Filwood Tree Champion’ Jim Smith, sound producer Keziah Wenham-Kenyon, and Knowle West Health Park walks leader Vince White. Find out more about Knowle West Health Park’s walks here.
Emma Blake Morsi (She/her) is a multidisciplinary Arts Producer and visual storyteller predominantly working across photography, words, graphics, film and events.
Emma challenges approaches to inclusion and innovation in the spaces she works in, and believes in platforming the voices of local communities as well as marginalised groups. She is training as a creative intersectional environmentalist.
Gallery
Top two rows of photos taken by Ibi Feher.
