If we were a forest.
Holographic video in wooden box, sound, branch and leaves
Funded by the Arts and Humanity Research Council (AHRC) as part of the UK Research and Innovation's 'Landscape Decisions' funding programme, commissioned by Edge Hill University, working with members of Learning Stars.
‘If we were a forest’ was a new way to experience the forest and beautiful nature reserve at Gorse Hill, not only as humble visitors, but as active members of this ever-changing eco-system. By feeling, drawing, singing, moving, we explored what it might be like to be a tree. It allowed us to use different senses, to feel the wind and the warmth of the sun on our skin, to listen to the leaves flickering, to touch the rough and strong bark…
The site we chose was very significant, as the forest was grown by a small charity 30 years ago, and has now grown as a beautiful site hosting a range of plant species and animals.
What came out of the workshop is how peaceful and tranquil such places can make us feel. And how amazing such a site can be when you take time to really pay attention to the smallest of things.
The video we created aimed to reflect on our felt experiences, those intangible moments of connections with the “majestic, lady-like, powerful” trees.
“I’m a mighty oak tree
with a thick, strong, cracked bark
and low branches cover me with leaves.
Birds sit on my branches, singing to me.”