Are You Lost? by Rob St. John, welcomes you into the heart of the Forest of Bowland to discover the stories that shape the landscape, from the people who live close by, through a series of sound, film and textile installations.
Immerse yourself in the sounds, sights and fabric of this remarkable landscape, as you step inside the installation to understand what makes the area tick.
Uncover the histories and personal stories of Bowland, delve deeper into your understanding of what the area represents and consider your own thoughts on this landscape and its social, and political heritage and future.
Over a year, locally based artist, Rob St John, spoke to people inside and outside the Forest of Bowland to better understand a wide range of perceptions of this often-misunderstood part of England. He collaborated with communities, in particular young people in Burnley and Nelson, to develop artworks that explore themes of environmental justice, land access and personal stories in the landscape. Rob held walks, talks, workshops, creative conversations and activities with local young people, schools, and local and national experts and community groups. A series of podcasts (below) share his explorations and conversations with the people he met along the way.
Rob’s film and soundscapes were created through these conversations and workshops, and weave together voices, field recordings and choral improvisations. The textile element of the installation is a collaboration with Lancashire textile artist Kate O’Farrell, drawing upon the cotton mill weaving practices of East Lancashire and the textile traditions of Gujarat in India, using natural materials and processes.
The installation was shared in urban surroundings of Nelson at the Pendle Festival of Culture before moving deeper into Bowland in the rural setting of Dunsop Bridge, before finishing in the wilds of Gisburn Forest with a weekend of activities and singing performances.
Are You Lost featured on Countryfile on 27 April, watch it on iPlayer.
Are You Lost? making a difference to young people in East Lancashire.
